The Hebrew word Çiçmay, represented by H5581, is the proper name of an Israelite, Sisamai. The derivation of the name is uncertain. It appears 2 times across 1 unique verse in the Bible, identifying a specific individual within a genealogy.
In the biblical narrative, H5581 is used exclusively within a genealogical listing in the book of 1 Chronicles. The verse states, "And Eleasah begat Sisamai, and Sisamai begat Shallum" 1 Chronicles 2:40. In this context, Sisamai serves as a generational link, identifying him as the son of Eleasah and the father of Shallum.
Several related words provide the genealogical framework for Sisamai:
- H501 ʼElʻâsâh (Elasah, Eleasah): Defined as "God has made," this is the name of Sisamai's father. The lineage begins with Eleasah begetting Sisamai 1 Chronicles 2:40.
- H3205 yâlad (to bear young; causatively, to beget): This verb is essential to the passage, establishing the direct father-son relationship between Eleasah, Sisamai, and Shallum by stating that one "begat" the next 1 Chronicles 2:40.
- H7967 Shallûwm (Shallum): This name identifies the son of Sisamai. The genealogical record continues with Sisamai begetting Shallum, positioning Sisamai as a key link between generations 1 Chronicles 2:40.
The significance of H5581 is tied entirely to its role in biblical genealogy.
- Preservation of Lineage: The inclusion of Sisamai in the Chronicles demonstrates the importance placed on meticulously recording ancestry within the Israelite tradition. His presence ensures the continuity of the family line from Eleasah to Shallum.
- Genealogical Marker: As a proper name, Sisamai functions as a specific marker in history. His existence, though not elaborated upon, contributes to the larger framework of Israel's tribal records.
- Factual Record: The name's appearance highlights the biblical text's function as a historical and familial document, where each individual in a lineage, including Sisamai, is noted to establish a complete and unbroken record.
In summary, H5581 Sisamai is a proper name appearing exclusively in a single genealogical list in 1 Chronicles. Its sole function is to serve as a generational link, identified as the son of Eleasah and the father of Shallum. While the name itself has no broader theological application, its inclusion underscores the value of preserving lineage and historical records in the biblical narrative, ensuring that each individual link in the chain of ancestry is documented.
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