Nebuzaradan, a prominent Babylonian military officer, is notably recognized in the biblical narrative for his role during the conquest of Jerusalem. As the captain of the guard under King Nebuchadnezzar II, Nebuzaradan was instrumental in the final siege and subsequent destruction of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. His actions, as recorded in the Scriptures, provide insight into the treatment and regard for the poor during this tumultuous period.

Biblical Account

The account of Nebuzaradan's interaction with the poor is primarily found in the Book of Jeremiah. After the fall of Jerusalem, Nebuzaradan was tasked with overseeing the deportation of the Jewish people to Babylon. However, he made a significant decision regarding the poorest inhabitants of the land. Jeremiah 39:10 states, "But Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard left behind in the land of Judah some of the poor people, who owned nothing; and at that time he gave them vineyards and fields."

This act of leaving the poor behind and providing them with vineyards and fields is noteworthy. It suggests a level of regard and provision for those who were economically disadvantaged. By allowing them to remain in the land and granting them resources, Nebuzaradan ensured that the poorest of the society had the means to sustain themselves, even amidst the devastation of their city and nation.

Historical and Cultural Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the poor were often the most vulnerable during times of conquest and exile. The decision to leave them in the land and provide for them could be seen as a strategic move to maintain some level of agricultural productivity in the region. It also reflects a common practice in ancient warfare, where conquerors would leave behind a remnant population to tend to the land, ensuring that it did not become desolate and unproductive.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, Nebuzaradan's actions can be seen as part of God's providential care for the poor. Throughout the Bible, there is a consistent theme of God's concern for the marginalized and impoverished. The provision of vineyards and fields to the poor remnant in Judah aligns with the biblical principle of caring for the needy and ensuring justice for the oppressed.

In the broader narrative of Scripture, this event underscores the idea that even in judgment and exile, God does not forget the poor. Nebuzaradan, though a pagan officer, becomes an instrument through which the poor are provided for, reflecting the divine mandate to care for the least among us.

Conclusion

Nebuzaradan's regard for the poor, as evidenced by his actions following the fall of Jerusalem, highlights a moment of mercy and provision in a time of great calamity. His decision to leave the poor in the land and equip them with resources serves as a testament to the enduring biblical theme of God's care for the impoverished and the responsibility of those in power to act justly towards them.Jeremiah 39:10
But Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard left of the poor of the people, which had nothing, in the land of Judah, and gave them vineyards and fields at the same time.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Against the Arians, and Concerning Himself.
... extent of our calamity, for we even regard our diminution ... the hands of the wicked,
of a Nebuzaradan, [3760] chief ... up to you the Fishermen, and the poor to whom ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/oration xxxiii against the arians.htm

Palestine under Pagan Kings.
... Four years after, Nebuzaradan again entered Judea, and gleaned ... seclusion, are dragged
forth by poor peasants, and ... But the most remarkable fact in regard to the ...
/.../headley/half hours in bible lands volume 2/palestine under pagan kings.htm

Appendix xii. The Baptism of Proselytes
... and to Nebuzaradan, who is also described as a proselyte ... it is necessary to indicate
them in regard to ... A Rabbi was distributing his gifts to the poor at night ...
/.../the life and times of jesus the messiah/appendix xii the baptism of.htm

Funeral Oration on the Great S. Basil, Bishop of C??sarea in ...
... found preserved among us, on which the poor live. ... our Patriarch, I mean my father,
in regard to whom ... with their tongues; the chief cook Nebuzaradan, [4492] who ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/oration xliii funeral oration on.htm

Against Jovinianus.
... loftier. [4255] "The mountains labour; a poor mouse is born.". ... replies. What
he decreed we may regard as the law of Christ speaking in him. ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/against jovinianus.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... invades Syria: Josiah slain at Megiddo, the battle of Carchemish"Nebuchadrezzar
II.: his policy with regard to Media"The conquests of Cyaxares and the ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

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Poor: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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