The name Nêrᵉgal Sharʼetser, represented by H5371, identifies two Babylonian individuals mentioned in scripture. It appears 3 times across 2 unique verses, indicating its specific role within the historical narrative. The name is derived from "Nergal" and "Sharetser" and is used to name these officials from Babylon.
In the biblical narrative, H5371 appears exclusively in the book of Jeremiah during the account of Babylon's conquest of Jerusalem. Nergalsharezer is listed as one of the princes H8269 of the king H4428 of Babylon H894 who entered Jerusalem and sat H3427 in the middle gate H8179, signifying the city's fall Jeremiah 39:3. He is mentioned again as one of the king of Babylon's princes H7227 who was sent H7971 by Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard Jeremiah 39:13.
Several related words and titles clarify the context of Nergal-sharezer's position and actions:
- H8269 sar (prince): This title defines his rank as a head person or ruler under the king's authority. He is explicitly named among the princes of the king of Babylon who took control of the city Jeremiah 39:3.
- H4428 melek (king): This word establishes the ultimate authority Nergal-sharezer served. His actions were carried out as an official of the king of Babylon Jeremiah 39:3.
- H7248 Rab-Mâg (Rab-Mag, a Babylonian official): This identifies a specific title for a chief Magian, one of the officials listed alongside Nergalsharezer. His inclusion in this group of high-ranking individuals highlights the organized nature of the Babylonian leadership Jeremiah 39:13.
The significance of H5371 is primarily historical, grounding the biblical account of judgment in specific events and figures.
- Historical Specificity: The inclusion of named Babylonian officials like Nergalsharezer, Samgar-nebo, and Sarsechim provides a detailed, historical texture to the narrative of Jerusalem's fall Jeremiah 39:3.
- Instruments of Judgment: As one of the princes sent H7971 by the Babylonian leadership, Nergalsharezer acts as an agent in the execution of God's judgment upon Jerusalem, as foretold by the prophets Jeremiah 39:13.
- Imperial Power: The presence of a contingent of high-ranking officials, including princes H8269 like Nergalsharezer, demonstrates the organized military and political power of the Babylonian empire H894, the instrument used to conquer Judah.
In summary, H5371 is more than just a foreign name within the text. It serves as a historical marker, identifying a specific Babylonian prince involved in the pivotal event of Jerusalem's capture. The mention of Nergalsharezer alongside other officials like Rabmag H7248 and Rabsaris H7249 underscores the authenticity of the account and illustrates the formidable, structured power of the Babylonian kingdom that acted as the agent of divine judgment.
TRV