from סָמַךְ and יָהּ; supported of Jah; Semakjah, an Israelite; Semachiah.
Transliteration:Çᵉmakyâhûw
Pronunciation:sem-ak-yaw'-hoo
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun Çᵉmakyâhûw (סְמַכְיָהוּ), Strong's `{{H5565}}`, is a theophoric name, meaning it incorporates a divine element. It is derived from two components:
1. The verb *samak* (סָמַךְ), `{{H5564}}`, meaning "to lean upon, support, sustain, uphold, lay hands on." This root conveys the idea of providing stability, assurance, or assistance.
2. The short form *Yah* (יָהּ), `{{H3050}}`, which is an abbreviation of the divine name YHWH (Yahweh), the personal name of God in the Old Testament.
Therefore, the name Çᵉmakyâhûw literally translates to "Supported by Yahweh," "Yahweh upholds," or "Yahweh sustains." As a proper noun, its semantic range is fixed to this specific individual and the theological truth embedded within his name. It signifies a profound reliance on and experience of God's active support.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Çᵉmakyâhûw (`{{H5565}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of 1 Chronicles:
* **[[1 Chronicles 26:7]]**: "The sons of Shemaiah: Othni, Rephael, Obed, Elzabad, whose brothers were able men, Elihu and Semachiah."
This verse is part of a detailed genealogical record concerning the divisions of the doorkeepers among the Levites, specifically the descendants of Obed-Edom. Semachiah is identified as one of the six sons of Shemaiah, a grandson of Obed-Edom. The text describes Shemaiah's sons as "able men" (גִּבֹּרֵי חַיִל, *gibbôrê ḥayil*), a phrase often translated as "mighty men of valor" or "strong men." This description suggests that Semachiah, along with his brothers, possessed significant strength, capability, or competence, fitting for their role in the service of the tabernacle/temple. The fact that he is named "Supported by Yahweh" in this context subtly reinforces the idea that their strength and ability were not merely inherent but divinely empowered and sustained. His inclusion in this list of dedicated servants highlights the divine hand in their service.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root *samak* (`{{H5564}}`). This root is rich in meaning and used in various contexts:
* **Physical Support:** It describes the act of leaning or resting upon something for support, as in [[Psalm 3:5]] where the psalmist "leans" on the Lord. It is also used for the physical act of "laying hands on" an animal for sacrifice ([[Leviticus 1:4]]) or on individuals for consecration or transfer of authority ([[Numbers 27:18]]).
* **Divine Sustenance:** Most significantly, *samak* frequently describes God's active role in sustaining and upholding His people. [[Psalm 37:24]] states, "Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; For the LORD upholds him with His hand." Similarly, [[Psalm 145:14]] declares, "The LORD upholds all who fall, And raises up all who are bowed down."
* **Trust and Reliance:** The verb also conveys the concept of trusting or relying on someone or something, indicating a dependence that brings stability, as seen in [[Isaiah 50:10]], "let him trust in the name of the LORD and rely on his God."
Theophoric names, like Semachiah, were common in ancient Israel and served as powerful declarations of faith and theological conviction. They often expressed parental hopes, gratitude for divine intervention, or a deep understanding of God's character. Other names incorporating the *Yah* element or expressing divine support include Azariah ("Yah has helped"), Uzziah ("My strength is Yah"), and Jehoshaphat ("Yahweh has judged"). These names collectively testify to the pervasive belief in God's active involvement in human lives.
### Theological Significance
The name Çᵉmakyâhûw, "Supported by Yahweh," carries profound theological significance. It is not merely a label but a statement of divine truth.
1. **Divine Providence and Sustenance:** The name unequivocally declares God as the ultimate source of support and sustenance. It underscores the biblical theme that human strength, ability, and even existence are ultimately upheld by the Creator. For Semachiah, an "able man" serving in a vital role, his very name attributed his capability to God's empowering presence.
2. **God's Active Involvement:** It speaks to God's intimate and active engagement in the lives of His people. He is not a distant deity but one who "upholds" and "sustains" those who belong to Him. This resonates with the consistent biblical portrayal of God as a helper, protector, and provider.
3. **Encouragement and Assurance:** For the ancient Israelite, and for believers today, such a name serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness. Even in times of weakness, falling, or difficulty, the truth embedded in "Supported by Yahweh" offers immense comfort and assurance that God will not allow His own to be utterly cast down.
4. **Theology in Everyday Life:** The prevalence of theophoric names demonstrates how theological convictions were woven into the very fabric of daily life and identity in ancient Israel. A name like Semachiah was a constant, personal testimony to God's character and His relationship with His people.
### Summary
Çᵉmakyâhûw (`{{H5565}}`), meaning "Supported by Yahweh," is a powerful theophoric name found once in the biblical text, identifying one of the "able men" among the Levite doorkeepers in [[1 Chronicles 26:7]]. Derived from the root *samak* (`{{H5564}}`) and the divine name *Yah* (`{{H3050}}`), it encapsulates the profound truth of God's active providence and sustenance for His people. The name serves as a theological declaration, emphasizing God's role as the ultimate upholder and source of strength, even in the seemingly mundane details of lineage and service. It stands as a testament to the ancient Israelite belief in a God who intimately engages with and faithfully supports the lives of those who trust in Him.
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