or שׁוּבָאֵל; from שָׁבָה (abbreviated form) or שׁוּב and אֵל; captive (or returned) of God; Shebuel or Shubael, the name of two Israelites; Shebuel, Shubael.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Shᵉbûwʼêl**, represented by `{{H7619}}`, means **captive (or returned) of God**. It appears **6 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, with an alternate spelling of **Shubael**. The name is given to at least two different Israelites, both of whom are associated with important Levitical families and duties.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, individuals named `{{H7619}}` are mentioned exclusively within the book of 1 Chronicles in the context of organizing Levitical service. One Shebuel, identified as the **son** of **Gershom** and grandson of **Moses**, was appointed as the **ruler** over the **treasures** [[1 Chronicles 26:24]]. In this lineage, he is also called the **chief** of the **sons** of **Gershom** [[1 Chronicles 23:16]]. A second individual, also named Shebuel, is listed as one of the **sons** of **Heman**, who was a prominent musician and seer [[1 Chronicles 25:4]]. The name Shubael appears in genealogies of the **sons** of **Levi** [[1 Chronicles 24:20]] and in the assignment of temple duties by lot [[1 Chronicles 25:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the roles and lineage associated with `{{H7619}}`:
* `{{H5057}}` **nâgîyd** (a commander... captain, chief... ruler): This title is directly applied to Shebuel, defining his specific role of authority as **ruler** of the treasures [[1 Chronicles 26:24]].
* `{{H214}}` **ʼôwtsâr** (a depository... store(-house), treasure(-house) (-y)): This word specifies the domain of Shebuel's authority, the sacred **treasures** kept for the service of the temple [[1 Chronicles 26:24]].
* `{{H1647}}` **Gêrᵉshôm** (Gereshom, the name of four Israelites): This is the name of Shebuel's father, who was the **son** of **Moses** [[1 Chronicles 23:15]], establishing Shebuel's direct and significant ancestry.
* `{{H1968}}` **Hêymân** (faithful; Heman, the name of at least two Israelites): The name of the father of the other Shebuel, **Heman** was one of the chief musicians appointed by David for temple worship [[1 Chronicles 25:1]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H7619}}` is rooted in its connection to Levitical responsibility and heritage.
* **Custodianship and Trust:** The appointment of Shebuel as **ruler** `{{H5057}}` over the **treasures** `{{H214}}` highlights a position of immense trust and administrative importance within the temple structure. This role was given to a direct descendant of **Moses** `{{H4872}}` [[1 Chronicles 26:24]].
* **Organized Worship:** The name is tied to the organization of sacred duties. One Shubael was part of the thirteenth lot for service [[1 Chronicles 25:20]], while another was a **son** of **Heman** `{{H1968}}`, a leader in the musical worship of the sanctuary [[1 Chronicles 25:4]].
* **A Life Returned to God:** The meaning of the name itself, "captive (or returned) of God," encapsulates the dedicated life of a Levite, whose existence was set apart for the service and administration of God's house.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7619}}` is more than just a name; it represents a legacy of faithful service within the tribe of **Levi**. Whether as **Shᵉbûwʼêl** the descendant of **Moses** overseeing the temple **treasures**, or as the **son** of the musician **Heman**, the name is consistently linked to positions of leadership and dedication. It embodies the concept of a life set apart for, and entrusted with, the holy things of God.
TRV