of uncertain derivation; Sismai, an Israelite; Sisamai.
Transliteration:Çiçmay
Pronunciation:sis-mah'-ee
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
Çiçmay (`{{H5581}}`), transliterated as Sismai, is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates an "uncertain derivation," meaning its etymological roots and any inherent conceptual meaning are unknown. As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to identifying a specific individual within the biblical narrative, rather than conveying a broader concept or action. It functions solely as a designator for a person in a genealogical context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Sismai (`{{H5581}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, within the detailed genealogies found in the book of 1 Chronicles.
* [[1 Chronicles 2:40]]: "And the son of Sismai was Shallum, and the son of Shallum was Jekamiah."
This solitary occurrence places Sismai within the lineage of Judah, specifically among the descendants of Jerahmeel, one of the sons of Hezron, who was a son of Perez, himself a son of Judah. The context is purely genealogical, serving to meticulously trace the family lines of the tribes of Israel. Sismai is presented as a direct link in this chain, being the father of Shallum. The purpose of these extensive genealogies in 1 Chronicles is to affirm the historical continuity of Israel, establish tribal identities, confirm land rights, and, most significantly, to underscore God's faithfulness in preserving His covenant people and the lineages through which His promises would be fulfilled. Sismai's mention, though brief, contributes to the comprehensive historical record of Judah.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary concept related to Sismai's appearance in Scripture is **genealogy** (Hebrew: יַחַס, *yaḥas*, `{{H3187}}`). Biblical genealogies were not merely historical records; they were foundational to the social, legal, and theological framework of ancient Israel. They established tribal affiliation, validated claims to inheritance, and, critically, authenticated the lineage of priests, kings, and ultimately, the Messiah. Sismai is part of the **Jerahmeelite** branch, a significant sub-clan within the tribe of Judah. This connection places him within the broader narrative of Judah's descendants, from whom the Davidic monarchy would arise. The inclusion of names like Sismai, even without further biographical detail, highlights the meticulous nature of the biblical record and the importance placed on the continuity of **lineage** (Hebrew: תּוֹלְדוֹת, *tôlᵉdôt*, `{{H8435}}`). While Sismai is not directly in the royal line, his presence underscores the comprehensive scope of God's providential care over all branches of His covenant people.
### Theological Significance
Though Sismai is a seemingly obscure figure, his inclusion in the biblical record carries profound theological significance. Firstly, his presence in the genealogies testifies to **God's meticulous sovereignty over human history**. Every individual, regardless of their prominence, is known to God and plays a part, however small, in His unfolding divine plan. God's attention to such detail underscores His intimate involvement in the lives of His people across generations. Secondly, the genealogies, including figures like Sismai, serve as a powerful testament to **God's covenant faithfulness**. They demonstrate the unbroken continuity of God's chosen people, affirming His commitment to preserve a lineage through whom His promises would ultimately be fulfilled. The very existence of these detailed records, even for individuals whose lives are otherwise unrecorded, reinforces the reliability of God's word and His providential care for His people. Finally, Sismai's place within the tribal records of Judah contributes to the **historical foundation for the coming of the Messiah**. While his specific line is not the direct Messianic one, the comprehensive nature of these genealogies collectively authenticates the historical context and the divinely ordained lineage from which Christ would ultimately emerge.
### Summary
Çiçmay (`{{H5581}}`), transliterated as Sismai, is a personal name of uncertain etymological derivation. He appears exclusively in [[1 Chronicles 2:40]], serving as a genealogical link within the Jerahmeelite branch of the tribe of Judah, noted as the father of Shallum. His inclusion highlights the biblical emphasis on meticulous genealogical records (`{{H3187}}`), which were crucial for establishing tribal identity, inheritance, and the historical continuity of God's covenant people. Theologically, Sismai's presence, though brief, underscores God's sovereign oversight of history, His unwavering faithfulness in preserving a chosen lineage, and the significance of every individual within His divine plan. These detailed genealogies, including figures like Sismai, provide an essential historical backdrop, affirming the reliability of God's promises and the eventual fulfillment of His redemptive purposes through a specific, verifiable lineage.
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