### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The word **Shêshᵉbatstsar**, represented by `{{H8339}}`, is a name of foreign derivation believed to be the Persian name for Zerubbabel. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This figure is instrumental in the initial return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Shêshᵉbatstsar** is identified as "the prince of Judah" [[Ezra 1:8]]. He is the individual entrusted by Cyrus, the king of Persia, to receive the sacred vessels of gold and silver that had been taken from the temple in Jerusalem. The task is carried out through Mithredath, the king's treasurer. Following this, **Shêshᵉbatstsar** is recorded as the one who led the captives up from Babylon to Jerusalem, bringing the restored temple articles with them [[Ezra 1:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the context of Sheshbazzar's role:
* `{{H3566}}` **Kôwresh** (Cyrus): The Persian king who authorized the return of the exiles and the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem [[Ezra 1:2]].
* `{{H5387}}` **nâsîyʼ** (prince): This title, meaning an exalted one, king, or sheik, is directly applied to Sheshbazzar, defining his position of leadership over the people of Judah [[Ezra 1:8]].
* `{{H3063}}` **Yᵉhûwdâh** (Judah): The name for the tribe and territory from which the returning exiles came. Sheshbazzar’s leadership is specifically tied to Judah [[Ezra 1:8]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (king): A title of royalty, used to describe Cyrus of Persia, the monarch who gave Sheshbazzar his commission [[Ezra 1:8]].
* `{{H4990}}` **Mithrᵉdâth** (Mithredath): The name of the Persian treasurer who numbered the temple vessels and delivered them to Sheshbazzar [[Ezra 1:8]].
### Theological Significance
The historical and theological significance of `{{H8339}}` is tied directly to the theme of divine restoration for Israel.
* **Appointed Leadership:** Sheshbazzar's designation as **prince** `{{H5387}}` of **Judah** `{{H3063}}` by a foreign **king** `{{H4428}}` highlights a pivotal moment where God uses a Gentile ruler, **Kôwresh** `{{H3566}}`, to restore leadership to His people.
* **Restoration of Worship:** His specific duty of returning the temple vessels is a critical first step in re-establishing formal worship in Jerusalem, signifying the beginning of a new era after the exile [[Ezra 1:11]].
* **Initiator of the Return:** As the leader who brought the first wave of captives from Babylon, Sheshbazzar's role is foundational to the subsequent rebuilding of the temple and the nation [[Ezra 1:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8339}}` **Shêshᵉbatstsar** represents a key transitional figure in Israel's history. Though mentioned only twice, he is the appointed leader who bridges the gap between the Babylonian exile and the restoration of the Jewish community in Judah. His actions, under the decree of King Cyrus, set in motion the return of both the people and the sacred objects necessary for worship, marking the start of a renewed national and spiritual life.
TRV