Topical Bible: Books: Not Extant, But Mentioned in Scripture: Shemaiah

◄ Books: Not Extant, But Mentioned in Scripture: Shemaiah ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The name Shemaiah appears in the context of a non-extant book referenced in the Old Testament. Shemaiah was a prophet during the reign of Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and king of Judah. The biblical narrative provides limited information about the writings attributed to Shemaiah, but his role as a prophet is significant in the historical and religious context of the divided kingdom.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to the writings of Shemaiah is found in 2 Chronicles 12:15: "Now the acts of Rehoboam, from beginning to end, are they not written in the records of Shemaiah the prophet and of Iddo the seer concerning genealogies?" . This verse suggests that Shemaiah, along with Iddo the seer, documented the events of Rehoboam's reign, including genealogical records. However, the specific writings of Shemaiah have not survived and are not part of the canonical Scriptures.

Historical Context:

Shemaiah's prophetic ministry occurred during a tumultuous period in Israel's history, marked by the division of the united monarchy into the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. Rehoboam's reign was characterized by political instability and conflict, including the invasion of Judah by Shishak, king of Egypt. Shemaiah played a crucial role in advising Rehoboam and the leaders of Judah during this crisis.

Role and Influence:

Shemaiah is notably recognized for his intervention when Rehoboam intended to wage war against the northern tribes of Israel to reunite the kingdom. In 1 Kings 12:22-24, Shemaiah delivers a message from the LORD, instructing Rehoboam and the people of Judah not to fight against their fellow Israelites: "But the word of God came to Shemaiah the man of God: 'Say to Rehoboam son of Solomon king of Judah, to all Judah and Benjamin, and to the rest of the people, "This is what the LORD says: You are not to march up and fight against your brothers. Each of you must return home, for this is My doing."’ So they listened to the word of the LORD and turned back according to the word of the LORD" . This intervention prevented a civil war and demonstrated Shemaiah's significant influence as a prophet.

Theological Significance:

The mention of Shemaiah's writings, though not extant, underscores the importance of prophetic literature in the historical and spiritual life of Israel. Prophets like Shemaiah were instrumental in guiding the kings and the people according to God's will. Their messages often called for repentance, obedience, and trust in God's sovereignty.

While the specific contents of Shemaiah's records are unknown, the biblical references to his work highlight the broader tradition of prophetic documentation that contributed to the understanding of Israel's history and God's dealings with His people. The absence of Shemaiah's writings in the biblical canon does not diminish his role as a faithful servant of God, whose recorded actions and messages continue to offer insights into the divine guidance provided to the leaders of Judah.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Chronicles 12:15
Now the acts of Rehoboam, first and last, are they not written in the book of Shemaiah the prophet, and of Iddo the seer concerning genealogies? And there were wars between Rehoboam and Jeroboam continually.
Torrey's Topical Textbook