Topical Encyclopedia Ner'gal-share'zer, also known as Nergal-sar-ezer, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem. He is identified as a high-ranking official in the Babylonian empire during the reign of King Nebuchadnezzar II. His name is of Akkadian origin, meaning "Nergal, protect the king," with Nergal being a deity associated with war and the underworld in Mesopotamian mythology.Biblical References: 1. Jeremiah 39:3 : "Then all the officials of the king of Babylon came and sat in the Middle Gate: Nergal-sharezer of Samgar, Nebo-sarsekim the Rabsaris, Nergal-sharezer the Rabmag, and all the rest of the officials of the king of Babylon." This verse places Nergal-sharezer among the Babylonian officials who entered Jerusalem after its fall. The mention of his title, "Rabmag," suggests a high-ranking position, possibly a chief priest or a military leader. 2. Jeremiah 39:13 : "So Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard, Nebushazban the Rabsaris, Nergal-sharezer the Rabmag, and all the chief officers of the king of Babylon." Here, Nergal-sharezer is again listed among the Babylonian officials involved in the aftermath of Jerusalem's conquest. His presence indicates his significant role in the administration and military operations of Babylon. Historical Context: Ner'gal-share'zer's involvement in the siege and subsequent capture of Jerusalem in 586 BC highlights the might and organization of the Babylonian empire under Nebuchadnezzar II. The fall of Jerusalem was a pivotal event in Jewish history, leading to the destruction of Solomon's Temple and the beginning of the Babylonian Exile. As a prominent official, Nergal-sharezer would have been instrumental in executing the king's orders and managing the newly conquered territories. Role and Significance: Ner'gal-share'zer's role as a Babylonian official underscores the fulfillment of prophetic warnings given by Jeremiah and other prophets regarding the impending judgment on Judah due to their disobedience to God. His presence in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the historical and divine forces at play during this tumultuous period. Cultural and Religious Implications: The mention of Nergal-sharezer and other Babylonian officials in the Bible reflects the broader cultural and religious interactions between the Israelites and their Mesopotamian conquerors. The Babylonians, with their pantheon of gods and advanced civilization, represented a significant challenge to the monotheistic faith of the Israelites. The events surrounding the fall of Jerusalem and the exile were seen as both a punishment for Israel's unfaithfulness and a test of their covenant relationship with God. Ner'gal-share'zer's presence in the biblical text serves as a historical anchor, providing insight into the geopolitical dynamics of the ancient Near East and the fulfillment of biblical prophecy. His role in the narrative is a testament to the accuracy and reliability of the biblical account, as well as a reminder of God's sovereignty over the nations. Concordance Ner'gal-share'zer (2 Occurrences)Jeremiah 39:3 Jeremiah 39:13 Thesaurus Ner'gal-share'zer (2 Occurrences)Ner'gal-share'zer. Nergal-sharezer, Ner'gal-share'zer. Nergal-shar-ezer . Multi-Version Concordance Ner'gal-share'zer (2 Occurrences). ... /n/ner'gal-share'zer.htm - 7k Nergal-sharezer (2 Occurrences) Nergal-shar-ezer (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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