Shelemiah

The name Shelemiah carries the profound meaning of 'Jehovah rewards', signifying divine recompense and blessing. Its etymology is rooted in the Hebrew language, where 'Shelem' relates to peace or completeness, and 'Yah' is a shortened form of Yahweh, the covenant name of God in the Old Testament. This combination underscores a theology of divine justice and grace, where God actively rewards faithfulness and obedience. Historically, names like Shelemiah were often given to express a deep sense of reliance on God's providence and acknowledgment of His sovereign role in the lives of His people.

The name Shelemiah appears prominently in the Old Testament, associated with nine distinct individuals, each reflecting different aspects of Israel's religious and social life. One of the most notable figures is the porter of the tabernacle during King David's reign (1 Chronicles 26:14), a role emphasizing faithfulness and dedication to God's service. Another significant Shelemiah was a priest appointed by Nehemiah to oversee the distribution of tithes (Nehemiah 13:13), a responsibility reflecting integrity and trustworthiness in upholding God's law. These roles highlight the spiritual significance of Shelemiah as a name tied to stewardship and divine reward.

Shelemiah is mentioned in ten biblical verses, appearing in historical, priestly, and prophetic contexts. For instance, in Nehemiah 3:30, Shelemiah is the father of Hananiah, who contributed to the rebuilding of Jerusalem's wall, symbolizing restoration and communal effort. In Jeremiah 36:14, Shelemiah's grandson Jehudi is tasked with reading the prophet's scroll, connecting the name to the preservation and proclamation of God's word. Conversely, another Shelemiah is noted in Jeremiah 36:26 as an adversary of God's prophets, ordered to arrest Jeremiah and Baruch, illustrating the complex roles individuals bearing this name played in biblical narratives.