Who Was Rehum in the Bible?
Rehum is a name associated with four distinct individuals in the Old Testament. Each played a role during critical periods of Israel’s history, particularly the Exile and Return, providing valuable lessons and insights for modern Christians.
Rehum: An Exile Returnee
Biblical Context
Rehum first appears in the Bible as an exile who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. He is mentioned in Ezra 2:2: “These came with Zerubbabel: Jeshua, Nehemiah, Seraiah, Reelaiah, Mordecai, Bilshan, Mispar, Bigvai, Rehum, and Baanah” (NIV). Rehum’s return signifies his participation in the initial group of exiles who left Babylon to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple, fulfilling God’s promise of restoration.
Rehum: A Persian Opposer
Opposition to Rebuilding Efforts
Another Rehum is identified as a Persian official who opposed the rebuilding efforts in Jerusalem. In Ezra 4:8, it is recorded: “Rehum the commanding officer and Shimshai the secretary wrote a letter against Jerusalem to King Artaxerxes” (NIV). This Rehum represents the external challenges and opposition faced by the Jews as they sought to restore their city and worship practices.
Rehum: A Builder
Rebuilding the Walls of Jerusalem
Rehum is also mentioned among the builders who worked on the walls of Jerusalem. In Nehemiah 3:17, the text states: “Next to him, the repairs were made by the Levites under Rehum son of Bani” (NIV). This Rehum played a vital role in the physical and symbolic restoration of Jerusalem, reinforcing the city’s defenses and morale under Nehemiah’s leadership.
Rehum: Signatory of Nehemiah’s Covenant
Commitment to God’s Law
Finally, Rehum appears as one of the signatories of the covenant in Nehemiah 10:25: “Rehum, Hashabnah, Maaseiah” (NIV). By signing this covenant, Rehum committed himself to following God’s law and upholding the commands given to Moses. This covenant represented a collective rededication to live according to God’s will.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
Faithfulness in Restoration
The stories of Rehum, particularly as an exile returnee and a builder, highlight the importance of faithfulness during periods of restoration. Modern Christians can learn from Rehum’s commitment to rebuilding Jerusalem, understanding that their efforts in restoring faith and community are vital, even amidst opposition.
Perseverance Amidst Opposition
Rehum’s opposition as a Persian official reminds believers that following God’s will often involves facing resistance. Christians today are encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith and mission, knowing that opposition is part of the journey but can be overcome with God’s help.
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Promise of Restoration
Rehum’s involvement in the return from exile and the rebuilding efforts underscores God’s promise of restoration. Despite the challenges faced by the exiles, God’s faithfulness ensured their return and the rebuilding of their community. This narrative reassures believers that God is always working to restore and renew, even in difficult circumstances.
Assurance of God’s Guidance
The rebuilding of Jerusalem under Nehemiah, with contributions from people like Rehum, demonstrates God’s guidance and provision. Christians can take comfort in knowing that God directs and supports their efforts to rebuild and restore their lives according to His purposes.
Connection to Jesus Christ
Foreshadowing the Ultimate Restoration
The physical rebuilding efforts in Jerusalem foreshadow the ultimate restoration brought by Jesus Christ. Just as Rehum and others worked to rebuild the temple and city walls, Jesus came to restore humanity’s broken relationship with God. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus provides spiritual renewal and reconciliation.
Covenant Commitment and Jesus
Rehum’s signing of the covenant parallels the new covenant established by Jesus. In Luke 22:20, Jesus says, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you” (NIV). Rehum’s commitment to the covenant is a precursor to the deeper commitment believers are called to in Christ, living according to His teachings and under the new covenant of grace.
Conclusion
Rehum’s presence in the Bible, through various roles and contexts, highlights significant themes of faithfulness, perseverance, and restoration. His participation in the return from exile, the rebuilding of Jerusalem, and the covenant commitment offers valuable lessons for modern Christians. Rehum’s story demonstrates God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and the importance of dedicated service in His kingdom. For believers today, Rehum’s narrative encourages a steadfast commitment to God’s will, trust in His guidance, and faith in the ultimate restoration brought through Jesus Christ.