of Hebrew origin (שֵׁם); Sem (i.e. Shem), a patriarch:-- Sem.
Transliteration:Sḗm
Pronunciation:same
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G4590 (Σήμ, *Sēm*) is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew proper noun `{{H8035}}` (שֵׁם, *shēm*), which refers to Shem, one of the three sons of Noah. As a proper noun, its semantic range is restricted to the specific individual it designates. However, the etymological root of his name, `{{H8035}}`, carries the meaning of "name," "renown," "reputation," or "character." This underlying meaning is often considered significant in theological interpretations of Shem's role in biblical history, hinting at the preservation of God's "name" or renown through his lineage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G4590 appears exclusively in the New Testament within the genealogies of Jesus Christ. Its sole occurrence is in [[Luke 3:36]], where it lists Shem as the son of Noah and the ancestor of Arphaxad. This placement within Luke's extensive genealogy, which traces Jesus' lineage all the way back to Adam, underscores Shem's pivotal role in the continuity of God's redemptive plan.
In the Old Testament, Shem is prominently featured in the Book of Genesis. He is consistently listed first among Noah's sons (e.g., [[Genesis 5:32]], [[Genesis 6:10]], [[Genesis 7:13]], [[Genesis 9:18]], [[Genesis 10:1]], [[Genesis 10:21]], [[Genesis 11:10]]). Following the Flood, Shem, along with his brother Japheth, demonstrates reverence for their father Noah by covering his nakedness ([[Genesis 9:23]]), an act that contrasts sharply with Ham's irreverence. This act of piety precedes Noah's prophetic blessing, where he declares, "Blessed be the Lord, the God of Shem" ([[Genesis 9:26]]), and prophesies that Canaan (Ham's son) will be Shem's servant. This blessing sets Shem apart as the ancestor through whom God's covenant promises would be preserved. The lineage from Shem through Arphaxad, Salah, Eber, Peleg, Reu, Serug, Nahor, and Terah leads directly to Abraham ([[Genesis 11:10-26]]), establishing Shem as the progenitor of the Abrahamic covenant line.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{H8035}}` (שֵׁם):** The Hebrew equivalent and root of Shem's name, meaning "name," "reputation," or "fame." This connection highlights the concept of divine reputation and the preservation of God's "name" through Shem's descendants.
* **Noah's Sons:** Shem is consistently presented alongside his brothers Ham and Japheth. While their birth order is debated, Shem's consistent first listing and unique blessing indicate his preeminence in God's redemptive scheme.
* **Patriarchal Line:** Shem is a foundational patriarch, bridging the antediluvian world with the post-Flood era and serving as the direct ancestor of Abraham, the father of the Israelite nation.
* **Genealogy:** The concept of a divinely preserved and chosen lineage is central to understanding Shem's importance. His inclusion in the genealogies of both the Old and New Testaments emphasizes the historical and continuous nature of God's work through specific individuals.
* **Blessing and Covenant:** Noah's specific blessing upon Shem in [[Genesis 9:26]] prefigures the covenant God would establish with Shem's descendant, Abraham, and subsequently with Israel.
### Theological Significance
Shem's theological significance is profound, primarily stemming from his role as a crucial link in the redemptive history of humanity.
* **Continuity of God's Redemptive Plan:** Shem represents the divinely chosen line through whom God's plan for salvation would continue after the global judgment of the Flood. He is a vital link in the unbroken chain of promise that stretches from Adam to Christ.
* **Ancestry of Abraham and Israel:** As the direct ancestor of Abraham, Shem is the patriarch through whom the covenant promises to Abraham—concerning land, seed, and blessing to all nations—are traced. This underscores the historical and genealogical particularity of God's election of Israel.
* **Messianic Line:** His inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus Christ in [[Luke 3:36]] firmly establishes him within the direct ancestral line of the Messiah. This highlights God's faithfulness in preserving a specific lineage for the ultimate fulfillment of His salvation through Jesus.
* **Thematic Significance of "Name":** The meaning of Shem's name ("name," "renown") carries deep theological resonance. It subtly points to the concept of God's own "name" being made great and preserved through this lineage, culminating in the "Name above all names"—Jesus Christ ([[Philippians 2:9-11]]). Noah's blessing, "Blessed be the Lord, the God of Shem," further emphasizes that God's renown and worship would be maintained through Shem's descendants.
* **Righteousness and Reverence:** Shem's act of reverence towards Noah, alongside Japheth, is often seen as a demonstration of the character that God honors and chooses for His divine purposes, contrasting with the irreverence of Ham.
### Summary
G4590 (Σήμ, *Sēm*) is the Greek transliteration of Shem, one of Noah's three sons. Though a proper noun with a singular referent, his biblical and theological significance is immense. He serves as a foundational patriarch, representing the divinely chosen lineage through whom God's redemptive plan was preserved after the Flood. As the direct ancestor of Abraham and, consequently, a crucial figure in the genealogy of Jesus Christ ([[Luke 3:36]]), Shem is a vital link in the chain of salvation history. His name, meaning "name" or "renown," subtly foreshadows the establishment of God's own "name" and glory through his descendants, culminating in the ultimate renown of the Messiah. His reverence towards Noah and the subsequent blessing pronounced upon him underscore his pivotal role in God's unfolding covenant with humanity.
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