### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word שֹׁבִי (Shôbîy - `{{H7629}}`) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates a derivation from the root שָׁבָה (shâbâh - `{{H7617}}`), which means "to take captive," "to lead away captive," or "to carry off." Thus, the name Shobi itself carries the semantic implication of "my captivity" or "my captor." Unlike common nouns or verbs, a proper noun's semantic range is limited to the individual it identifies. However, the etymological connection to the concept of "captivity" is significant, especially when contrasted with the individual's actions in the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Shobi (שֹׁבִי - `{{H7629}}`) appears in only one passage in the Hebrew Bible: [[2 Samuel 17:27-29]]. Here, he is identified as "Shobi the son of Nahash from Rabbah of the Ammonites." This lineage is crucial. Nahash, likely the same Ammonite king mentioned in [[1 Samuel 11:1]] and [[2 Samuel 10:2]], was a historical adversary of Israel. Despite this background of national enmity, Shobi, along with Machir the son of Ammiel and Barzillai the Gileadite, provides essential provisions and comfort to King David and his weary entourage as they flee Absalom's rebellion in Mahanaim. The text details the extensive supplies brought: beds, basins, earthenware, wheat, barley, flour, roasted grain, beans, lentils, honey, curds, sheep, and cheese. This act of profound hospitality and material support is extended to David at a moment of extreme vulnerability and distress, highlighting Shobi's unexpected loyalty and compassion. His actions stand in stark contrast to the historical animosity between the Ammonites and Israel, and indeed, to the internal strife tearing David's own kingdom apart.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root שָׁבָה (shâbâh - `{{H7617}}`), meaning "to take captive." This etymological link creates a powerful irony, as the individual named "Captor" or "My Captivity" acts as a liberator and provider for David, rather than an oppressor. Other related concepts include:
* **Hospitality:** Shobi exemplifies extraordinary hospitality, providing succor to a king in exile.
* **Loyalty and Disloyalty:** His loyalty to David stands in stark contrast to Absalom's disloyalty and the general chaos of the rebellion.
* **Divine Providence:** Shobi's aid illustrates God's unseen hand providing for His anointed even through unexpected sources.
* **Ammonites:** The historical context of the Ammonites as frequent adversaries of Israel (e.g., [[Judges 10:6-9]], [[1 Samuel 11:1-11]], [[2 Samuel 10:1-19]]). Shobi represents a unique instance of an Ammonite acting beneficially towards the king of Israel.
* **Mercy and Kindness:** His actions are a display of unmerited favor towards David.
### Theological Significance
Theologically, Shobi's brief appearance is profoundly significant. First, he serves as a powerful testament to God's sovereign providence. In David's darkest hour, fleeing his rebellious son, God orchestrates help from unexpected quarters. That an Ammonite, from a nation often hostile to Israel, would provide such crucial aid underscores that God's resources and means of delivering His people are not limited by national boundaries or historical animosities. This demonstrates God's ability to use anyone, regardless of their background, to fulfill His purposes and protect His chosen.
Second, Shobi's actions challenge preconceived notions and ethnic prejudices. Despite his name's association with "captivity" and his national identity as an Ammonite (a people often associated with oppression of Israel), he acts as a benefactor. This illustrates a deeper biblical truth: God's grace and the capacity for righteousness are not confined to a single ethnicity or lineage. It subtly foreshadows the broader New Testament theme of God's redemptive plan extending beyond Israel to include the Gentiles. Shobi stands as a remarkable example of unexpected grace and compassion in a narrative otherwise dominated by betrayal and conflict.
### Summary
שֹׁבִי (Shôbîy - `{{H7629}}`) is a proper noun, an Ammonite whose name derives from the root "to capture" (שָׁבָה - `{{H7617}}`). He is known solely from [[2 Samuel 17:27-29]], where he is depicted as a key figure who, along with others, provides vital provisions and support to King David during Absalom's rebellion. This act of profound hospitality is particularly striking given Shobi's Ammonite identity and the historical enmity between Ammon and Israel. Theologically, Shobi's story powerfully illustrates God's providential care for His anointed, demonstrating that divine aid can emerge from the most unexpected sources, even from those traditionally considered adversaries. His actions challenge ethnic stereotypes and highlight the theme of unexpected grace, underscoring God's sovereignty over all peoples and His capacity to work through anyone to accomplish His will.
TRV