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.
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.
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.
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.
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