### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Shôbîy**, represented by `{{H7629}}`, means **captor**. It is used to identify a specific Ammonite man named Shobi. This name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text, highlighting a singular but important moment in the life of King David.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7629}}` is in the narrative of David's flight from Absalom. When David `{{H1732}}` came `{{H935}}` to Mahanaim `{{H4266}}`, a place of refuge, **Shobi** the son `{{H1121}}` of Nahash `{{H5176}}` of Rabbah `{{H7237}}` of the children of Ammon `{{H5983}}` was one of three prominent men who met him. He, along with Machir `{{H4353}}` and Barzillai `{{H1271}}`, provided crucial support to David and his people in their time of distress [[2 Samuel 17:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several key individuals and places are directly associated with Shobi in his only appearance:
* `{{H5176}}` **Nâchâsh**: The father of Shobi and a non-Israelite figure, identified as a king of the Ammonites [[1 Samuel 12:12]]. Despite conflict with Israel, David noted that Nahash had shown him kindness [[2 Samuel 10:2]].
* `{{H5983}}` **ʻAmmôwn**: The Ammonites were the descendants of Lot's son. Shobi's identity as one of the children of Ammon is significant, as this group was often in opposition to Israel [[Amos 1:13]].
* `{{H1271}}` **Barzillay**: An iron-hearted man from Gilead `{{H1569}}`, Barzillai was a very great man who also provided sustenance for David at Mahanaim `{{H4266}}` and is listed alongside Shobi as a loyal supporter ([[2 Samuel 17:27]], [[2 Samuel 19:32]]).
* `{{H1732}}` **Dâvid**: The king of Israel and the recipient of Shobi's aid. Shobi's support for David demonstrates an allegiance that transcended typical national rivalries [[2 Samuel 17:27]].
### Theological Significance
The appearance of `{{H7629}}` illustrates several important themes within the biblical narrative:
* **Unexpected Kindness:** Shobi, as an Ammonite `{{H5983}}`, came from a people often hostile to Israel. His choice to aid David `{{H1732}}` demonstrates that loyalty and compassion can be found in unexpected places, possibly continuing a legacy of kindness established by his father, Nahash `{{H5176}}`, toward David [[2 Samuel 10:2]].
* **Provision in Crisis:** Shobi's arrival at Mahanaim `{{H4266}}` alongside Machir `{{H4353}}` and Barzillai `{{H1271}}` represents divine provision and human faithfulness. They came to David when he was vulnerable, fleeing his own son and in need of support.
* **Loyalty Beyond Borders:** The assistance given to David came from a diverse group: an Ammonite (Shobi), a man from Lodebar `{{H3810}}` (Machir), and a Gileadite `{{H1569}}` (Barzillai). This alliance shows a unity of support for God's anointed king that was not limited by geography or ancestry.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7629}}` **Shôbîy** is the name of a singular but significant figure in the Old Testament. While mentioned only once, his story is a powerful testament to loyalty and friendship. As an Ammonite who supported David `{{H1732}}` during a perilous rebellion, Shobi's action demonstrates that faithfulness and kindness can transcend national and historical conflicts, and it serves as a key example of the provision David received during one of the darkest moments of his reign [[2 Samuel 17:27]].
TRV