Topical Encyclopedia Immer is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, recognized primarily as the father of Pashur. The lineage of Immer is significant within the priestly divisions of ancient Israel, as the family of Immer was one of the twenty-four priestly families established by King David to serve in the temple (1 Chronicles 24:14). This division of priestly duties was intended to organize the service of the temple, ensuring that the worship and sacrifices were conducted in an orderly and continuous manner.Pashur, Son of Immer Pashur, the son of Immer, is a notable character in the Book of Jeremiah. He served as a priest and an official in the temple during the time of the prophet Jeremiah. Pashur is most prominently mentioned in Jeremiah 20, where he is described as having a contentious relationship with the prophet. In Jeremiah 20:1-2 , it is recorded: "When Pashur the priest, the son of Immer, the chief officer in the house of the LORD, heard Jeremiah prophesying these things, he had Jeremiah the prophet beaten and put in the stocks at the Upper Gate of Benjamin at the house of the LORD." This incident highlights the tension between the religious authorities of the time and the prophetic messages delivered by Jeremiah. Pashur's actions against Jeremiah were a response to the prophet's dire warnings of impending judgment upon Jerusalem and its leaders due to their unfaithfulness to God. The Prophetic Rebuke Following his release from the stocks, Jeremiah delivered a prophetic rebuke to Pashur, declaring that his name would be changed to "Magor-Missabib," meaning "terror on every side" (Jeremiah 20:3-4). This name change symbolized the fear and destruction that would come upon Pashur and his associates as a result of their opposition to God's message. Jeremiah prophesied that Pashur and his household would be taken captive to Babylon, where he would die and be buried (Jeremiah 20:6). The Priestly Lineage of Immer The family of Immer, as part of the priestly divisions, played a significant role in the religious life of Israel. The priests were responsible for performing sacrifices, maintaining the temple, and instructing the people in the Law of God. The mention of Immer in the context of Pashur's actions serves as a reminder of the complex dynamics between the established religious order and the prophetic voices that called for repentance and faithfulness to God's covenant. Historical and Theological Significance The account of Immer and his son Pashur provides insight into the challenges faced by the prophets in delivering God's messages to a resistant audience. It also underscores the importance of faithfulness and integrity in religious leadership. The narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of opposing God's will and the ultimate fulfillment of His prophetic word. In summary, Immer, as the father of Pashur, is a figure whose legacy is intertwined with the broader themes of prophecy, judgment, and the priestly service in ancient Israel. His mention in the biblical text invites reflection on the responsibilities and challenges of spiritual leadership in the face of divine truth. Nave's Topical Index Jeremiah 20:1,2Now Pashur the son of Immer the priest, who was also chief governor in the house of the LORD, heard that Jeremiah prophesied these things. Nave's Topical Index Library The Greater Prophets. Resources Who was Zadok in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |