Who was Shashai in the Bible?
Shashai is a man mentioned in the book of Ezra, specifically in Ezra 10:40. His name appears in the context of a significant event during the time of the Exile and Return, when the Israelites were working to restore proper worship and obedience to God’s law. Shashai’s story is brief, but it carries important lessons about faithfulness and obedience to God’s commands.
Shashai in the Time of Exile and Return
Biblical Reference
In Ezra 10:40, Shashai is listed among those who had taken foreign wives and were required to divorce them as part of the restoration process led by Ezra. The passage reads: “Azarel, Shelemiah, Shemariah, Shashai, Amariah.”
Historical Context
During the period of the Exile and Return, the Israelites had been taken captive by the Babylonians and later allowed to return to their homeland under the decree of King Cyrus of Persia. Upon their return, they faced the challenge of rebuilding their community and reestablishing their covenant relationship with God. One major issue was the intermarriage with foreign women, which was contrary to the Law of Moses. Deuteronomy 7:3-4 clearly prohibited such marriages to prevent the Israelites from being led astray into idolatry and pagan practices.
The Call for Repentance and Restoration
Ezra’s Leadership
Ezra, a priest and scribe, was a central figure in this restoration effort. He recognized the seriousness of the people’s sin in marrying foreign wives and the potential for these marriages to lead the community away from God. Ezra 9:1-4 describes his reaction to this issue, where he tore his garments and wept before God, interceding for the people.
The Community’s Response
Under Ezra’s leadership, the community acknowledged their sin and agreed to take decisive action. In Ezra 10:2-3, one of the leaders, Shecaniah, suggests a covenant to put away the foreign wives and their children to purify the community. This decision was not taken lightly, as it involved personal sacrifice and the breaking of family bonds. However, it was seen as necessary to restore faithfulness to God’s law.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Importance of Obedience to God’s Commands
Shashai’s mention in the context of this event highlights the importance of obedience to God’s commands. Modern Christians can learn from this example that following God’s Word, even when it is difficult or counter-cultural, is crucial. The Bible repeatedly emphasizes the need for holiness and separation from worldly influences (1 Peter 1:16, Romans 12:2).
The Necessity of Repentance and Correction
The actions taken by Shashai and others under Ezra’s leadership demonstrate the necessity of repentance and correction when God’s standards are compromised. For Christians today, this means being willing to confess and turn away from sin, and to take steps to align their lives with God’s will.
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Desire for Purity
The requirement for the Israelites to put away their foreign wives was rooted in God’s desire for purity among His people. This act was not just about following rules, but about maintaining a relationship with God that was untainted by idolatry and pagan practices. This reflects God’s love and His desire for a close, uncorrupted relationship with His people.
God’s Forgiveness and Restoration
The story of Shashai also highlights God’s willingness to forgive and restore those who repent. Despite their failures, the Israelites were given a chance to return to God and rebuild their lives according to His standards. This offers hope to modern Christians that no matter how far they may have strayed, God is always ready to forgive and restore them when they turn back to Him.
Connection to Jesus Christ
Fulfillment of the Law
Jesus Christ fulfills the Law of Moses and provides a way for believers to live in right relationship with God. The story of Shashai points to the need for a savior who can truly cleanse from sin and lead people into a holy life. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross accomplished what the Law could only point to, offering forgiveness and transformation through His grace.
The Call to Holiness
Christ’s teaching continues the call to holiness seen in the Old Testament. In John 17:17, Jesus prays for His followers, “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” The call to live a life set apart for God remains, and through Christ, believers are empowered to live out this call in their daily lives.
Conclusion
Shashai’s brief mention in the book of Ezra underscores the importance of obedience to God’s commands, the necessity of repentance, and the call to maintain purity and holiness. His story serves as a reminder for modern Christians to uphold the sanctity of their faith, seek God’s forgiveness, and strive to live according to His will. Through the lens of Christ’s redemptive work, believers can find the strength and grace to follow God wholeheartedly, even in the face of cultural pressures or personal challenges.