Topical Encyclopedia Rathumus is a figure mentioned in the apocryphal book of 1 Esdras, which is part of the collection of texts known as the Apocrypha. These texts are included in some Christian traditions, such as the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches, but are not part of the Hebrew Bible or the Protestant Old Testament. Rathumus is identified as a key official in the Persian administration during the time of the Jewish return from the Babylonian exile.Biblical Context In 1 Esdras 2:16, Rathumus is described as a high-ranking official who, along with others, wrote a letter to King Artaxerxes of Persia. This letter was intended to halt the rebuilding of Jerusalem and its temple, which had been decreed by King Cyrus of Persia. The letter expressed concern that the reestablishment of Jerusalem would lead to rebellion and a loss of control over the region. The text reads: "Then Rathumus the recorder and Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their associates living in Samaria and elsewhere in the region beyond the River, wrote to King Artaxerxes" (1 Esdras 2:16). Historical and Cultural Background Rathumus, as a recorder, held a significant bureaucratic position within the Persian Empire. The role of a recorder or scribe was crucial in maintaining the administrative functions of the empire, which spanned a vast territory. These officials were responsible for documenting events, drafting official correspondence, and ensuring the implementation of royal decrees. The opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem was not merely a political maneuver but also reflected the complex socio-political dynamics of the time. The Persian Empire, under leaders like Cyrus and later Artaxerxes, had a policy of allowing exiled peoples to return to their homelands and rebuild their places of worship. However, local officials and neighboring peoples often viewed these actions with suspicion and concern, fearing the loss of influence and control. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the actions of Rathumus and his associates can be seen as part of the broader narrative of opposition faced by the Jewish people throughout their history. Despite the challenges and resistance, the biblical narrative emphasizes God's sovereignty and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people. The rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple is a testament to God's providence and the perseverance of the Jewish community in the face of adversity. Relevance to the Canonical Scriptures While Rathumus is not mentioned in the canonical books of the Bible, the themes and events surrounding his actions are echoed in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. These canonical texts also describe the opposition faced by the Jewish people during the rebuilding efforts and highlight the role of divine intervention and leadership in overcoming these obstacles. In summary, Rathumus serves as a historical figure representing the opposition to the Jewish restoration efforts during the Persian period. His actions, as recorded in 1 Esdras, provide insight into the challenges faced by the Jewish community and the broader context of God's redemptive plan as revealed in the Scriptures. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia RATHUMUSra-thu'-mus (Rhathumos): One of those who joined in writing a letter to protest to Artaxerxes against the Jews (1 Esdras 2:16;). In 1 Esdras 2:17 he is styled "story-writer," the Revised Version margin "recorder" (ho ta prospiptonta sc. (graphon) = "Rehum the chancellor" of Ezra 4:8, Rathumus being a Greek form of Rehum. In 1 Esdras 2:16 his title appears as an independent proper name, BEELTETHMUS (which see) (here the King James Version margin gives "Bahumus," a misprint), and in 1 Esdras 2:25 R. and Beeltethmus are given as distinct persons. Library How Upon the Death of Cyrus the Jews were Hindered in Building of ... Thesaurus Rathumus... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia RATHUMUS. ... (graphon) = "Rehum the chancellor" of Ezra 4:8, Rathumus being a Greek form of Rehum. ... /r/rathumus.htm - 6k Ratified (5 Occurrences) Rather (176 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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