Shemaiah was a prophet during the reign of King Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and the first king of the southern kingdom of Judah following the division of the united monarchy. His role as a prophet is documented in the Hebrew Scriptures, where he is depicted as a messenger of God, delivering divine instructions and warnings to the king and the people of Judah.

Role and Prophetic Ministry

Shemaiah's ministry is particularly noted during a critical period in Judah's history, shortly after the kingdom split into the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. This division occurred due to Rehoboam's harsh policies, which led to the rebellion of the northern tribes under Jeroboam. In this context, Shemaiah's prophetic voice emerges as a guiding force for Rehoboam and the people of Judah.

One of the most significant episodes involving Shemaiah is recorded in 1 Kings 12:22-24 and 2 Chronicles 11:2-4. When Rehoboam gathered an army to fight against the northern tribes and reunite the kingdom by force, Shemaiah received a word from the LORD, instructing Rehoboam and the people of Judah not to go to war against their brothers. The Berean Standard Bible (BSB) records this divine message: "But the word of God came to Shemaiah the man of God: 'Say to Rehoboam son of Solomon king of Judah, to all the Israelites in Judah and Benjamin, that 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."'" (2 Chronicles 11:2-4, BSB). Obedient to the word of the LORD, Rehoboam and his forces refrained from attacking, thus averting a civil war.

Shemaiah's Writings

In addition to his prophetic activities, Shemaiah is credited with writing chronicles concerning the reign of Rehoboam. These writings are mentioned in 2 Chronicles 12:15, which states, "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?" (BSB). This reference suggests that Shemaiah, along with Iddo, documented the events and genealogies of the time, contributing to the historical and religious record of Judah.

Legacy and Influence

Shemaiah's influence extended beyond his immediate prophetic interventions. By faithfully conveying God's messages, he played a crucial role in shaping the early years of the divided monarchy. His obedience to God's command not only prevented bloodshed but also underscored the importance of seeking and heeding divine guidance in times of national crisis.

Shemaiah's legacy is preserved in the biblical narrative as a testament to the power and authority of God's word delivered through His prophets. His life and ministry serve as a reminder of the critical role prophets played in guiding the kings and people of Israel and Judah, calling them to faithfulness and obedience to the covenant with God.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.
Nave's Topical Index

Books of the Hebrew Canon.
... a series of collections which seem at one time to have ... action is ascribed in the
one "to Shemaiah, at Shechem ... of the meeting of Jeroboam with the prophet (xi.29 ...
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