Shimshai the Scribe is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Ezra, specifically in the context of the opposition faced by the Jewish exiles who returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. His role is primarily documented in Ezra 4, where he is depicted as an adversary to the rebuilding efforts led by Zerubbabel and Jeshua.

Historical Context

The events involving Shimshai occur during the reign of King Artaxerxes of Persia. After the decree of Cyrus allowed the Jewish exiles to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple, opposition arose from the surrounding peoples. These adversaries sought to frustrate the plans of the returning exiles, fearing the re-establishment of a strong Jewish presence in the region.

Role and Actions

Shimshai is identified as a scribe, a position of significant administrative authority and literacy in the Persian Empire. In Ezra 4:8-16, Shimshai, along with Rehum the commander, writes a letter to King Artaxerxes. This letter is a formal complaint against the Jews, accusing them of rebuilding the rebellious and wicked city of Jerusalem. The letter warns the king that if the city is rebuilt and its walls are completed, the Jews will no longer pay tribute, taxes, or tolls, thereby diminishing the royal revenue.

The text of the letter, as recorded in Ezra 4:11-16 , states:

> "This is the text of the letter they sent him: To King Artaxerxes: From your servants, the men of the region west of the Euphrates: Let it be known to the king that the Jews who came up from you have returned to us at Jerusalem. They are rebuilding that rebellious and wicked city, restoring its walls and repairing its foundations. Let it now be known to the king that if this city is rebuilt and its walls are completed, they will no longer pay tribute, taxes, or tolls, and the royal revenue will suffer."

Shimshai's involvement in this correspondence highlights his role as a key figure in the opposition against the Jewish community's efforts to restore their religious and cultural center.

Impact and Legacy

The actions of Shimshai and his associates temporarily halted the rebuilding process. King Artaxerxes responded to their letter by ordering the cessation of construction until further notice, as recorded in Ezra 4:17-22. This delay was a significant setback for the Jewish exiles, illustrating the challenges they faced from external forces.

Shimshai's role as a scribe and his participation in the opposition against the Jews underscore the broader theme of resistance to God's plans and the perseverance required by His people to overcome such obstacles. His actions serve as a reminder of the political and social dynamics at play during the post-exilic period and the complexities involved in the restoration of Jerusalem.

Biblical References

· Ezra 4:8-16 · The letter written by Rehum and Shimshai to King Artaxerxes.
· Ezra 4:17-22 · The king's response to the letter, ordering the cessation of the rebuilding efforts.

Shimshai the Scribe remains a notable figure in the narrative of the Jewish return from exile, representing the opposition that God's people often face in fulfilling His purposes.