Shemaiah שְׁמַעְיָ֫הוּ
Prophet from Kiriath-jearim
Who is Shemaiah in the Bible?
Shemaiah was a prophet from Kiriath-jearim who ministered during the reign of King Jehoiakim of Judah. According to Jeremiah 26:20, he prophesied against Jerusalem and Judah, delivering messages similar to those proclaimed by the prophet Jeremiah. When King Jehoiakim and his officials heard Shemaiah's words, they sought to execute him, forcing the prophet to flee for his life to Egypt. His account illustrates the grave dangers faced by Old Testament prophets who dared to speak God's judgment against the kingdom and its leadership, even as it demonstrates that multiple voices rose to warn Judah of coming judgment during this tumultuous period.
Biography
Shemaiah was a prophet from Kiriath-jearim who lived during the reign of King Jehoiakim of Judah. According to Jer.26.20, Shemaiah prophesied against Jerusalem and the land of Judah, speaking words similar to those of Jeremiah. However, when King Jehoiakim and the officials heard his words, they sought to put him to death. Fearing for his life, Shemaiah fled to Egypt. This incident is mentioned in the context of Jeremiah's own persecution for his prophetic messages, highlighting the dangers faced by prophets who spoke out against the prevailing powers and attitudes of their time.
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In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study contentJeremiah 1 verse
- Jeremiah 26:20
"Now there was another man prophesying in the name of the LORD, Uriah son of Shemaiah from Kiriath-jearim. He prophesied against this city and against this land the same things that Jeremiah did."
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Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | שְׁמַעְיָ֫הוּ |