The newest Great American Pure Flix Original series, “Shadrach,” got its name after an unexpected character in the show. Anna Wilson chose the name Shadrach for her new horse whom her grandparents generously gifted to her.
But where does the name Shadrach come from? What makes it fitting for this majestic horse? In this article, we’re going to explore the history of the name Shadrach and how it’s the perfect fit for Anna’s horse in the series.
Where Does the Name Shadrach Come From?
The name "Shadrach" carries a rich history, originating from the Bible. Shadrach was one of the three Hebrew men thrown into a fiery furnace by King Nebuchadnezzar, only to be miraculously saved by their faith. This powerful story of resilience and divine protection makes "Shadrach" a meaningful and evocative name.
The story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego can be found in the book of Daniel in the Old Testament. They refused to obey King Nebuchadnezzar’s instructions to worship false gods. As God-fearing men, when the three were summoned before Nebuchadnezzar, they stood firm in their faith, knowing whatever happened to them would be the will of God.
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” - Daniel 3:16-18 (NIV)
This angered the king so much, that he ordered the furnace to be turned up seven times hotter than normal before throwing Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego into the fire.
The sight that King Nebuchadnezzar witnessed when the three men went into the furnace opened his eyes to see that the God of these men was indeed the true God.
Then King Nebuchadnezzar leaped to his feet in amazement and asked his advisers, “Weren’t there three men that we tied up and threw into the fire?” They replied, “Certainly, Your Majesty.” He said, “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods.” Nebuchadnezzar then approached the opening of the blazing furnace and shouted, “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!” So Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego came out of the fire, and the satraps, prefects, governors and royal advisers crowded around them. They saw that the fire had not harmed their bodies, nor was a hair of their heads singed; their robes were not scorched, and there was no smell of fire on them. -- Daniel 3:24-27 (NIV)
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego’s courage and perseverance of faith caused Nebuchadnezzar’s conversion of faith that very day.
Then Nebuchadnezzar said, “Praise be to the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent his angel and rescued his servants! They trusted in him and defied the king’s command and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. - Daniel 3: 28 (NIV)
What Does the Story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego Teach Us?
At that time, many people followed the King’s orders for fear of retribution for disobedience. It was rare for people to go against the King’s worship of gods, which is why the act of these three Hebrew men was unprecedented. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego’s act of standing up for their beliefs and defying the King because of their faith shows great courage and loyalty to their God.
The unwavering faith they had in God also made them brave and strong enough to face the fiery furnace without fear of their lives. They knew that whatever God had planned for them would surely take place when they stepped into the furnace. They trusted God with their entire lives and handed their lives over to the Lord in that very moment.
These three men are examples of bravery, loyalty and unwavering faith and perseverance. They boldly lived out their faith and because of their witness the King was converted. We can take Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego as models of what it means to be courageous in our faith and daily witnesses to God’s goodness.
How Do the Themes of Shadrach’s Story Relate to the Series, “Shadrach”?
The themes of the Biblical story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego can be translated into the contemporary setting of the Great American Original series “Shadrach.” The horse of the same name becomes an integral part of the Wilson family, helping them discover the true meaning of hope, faith and family.
Shadrach, the horse, overcomes adversity and is a symbol of strength and loyalty in the series, much like its biblical namesake. The Wilson family save him from an unfavorable situation but that doesn’t deter his spirit. He continues to be a loving and faithful companion despite his past. He is always watching out for and protecting Anna and her brother Michael whenever he’s with them.
Shadrach also helps Anna find hope in her family’s transition to a small town after moving away from the city. As Anna learns to care for Shadrach, she becomes more excited about spending time with him and enjoys the responsibility of owning a horse. Shadrach helps Anna find solace in her new home in the country, as she was initially opposed to moving away from the city, her friends and her school.
By naming the horse Shadrach, this Original series creates a deeper connection with our members, embedding timeless themes of faith and resilience into its narrative. This blend of historical and modern storytelling can enrich the series, making it not just a tale about a horse, but a broader reflection on enduring values.
Stream the first two episodes of “Shadrach” July 25, with new episodes dropping every Thursday at 8pm EST through August 22, only on Great American Pure Flix. Not a member? Sign up for your free 7-day trial today.
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