### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shôwbâk**, represented by `{{H7731}}`, is the proper name **Shobach**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The name identifies a specific individual: a Syrian who served as a high-ranking military leader.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7731}}` is exclusively associated with a conflict between King David's Israel and the Syrians. Shobach is introduced as "the captain of the host of Hadarezer," a Syrian leader. Hadarezer sent `{{H7971}}` for Syrian forces, which Shobach then led into battle [[2 Samuel 10:16]]. The conflict culminates in a decisive victory for Israel, where the Syrians fled `{{H5127}}`. In this battle, David's army smote `{{H5221}}` Shobach, the captain of their host, who died `{{H4191}}` there [[2 Samuel 10:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the actions surrounding Shobach's role and demise:
* `{{H7971}}` **shâlach** (to send away, for, or out): This word describes the initial action by Hadarezer to bring his forces into the conflict, an action that Shobach would lead [[2 Samuel 10:16]]. It is also used for God sending His word or His prophets [[Isaiah 61:1]].
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go out, bring out): This word is used when Hadarezer "brought out" the Syrians for battle [[2 Samuel 10:16]]. It signifies a movement from one place to another, as when God promises to bring His people out from the nations [[Ezekiel 34:13]].
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh** (to strike): This is the action taken against Shobach that led to his death [[2 Samuel 10:18]]. It can mean to strike lightly or severely, and is used in contexts of judgment, such as the smiting of the shepherd in Zechariah's prophecy [[Zechariah 13:7]].
* `{{H4191}}` **mûwth** (to die): This word confirms the finality of Shobach's defeat [[2 Samuel 10:18]]. It is the same word used for the ultimate penalty for sin declared in Eden [[Genesis 2:17]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative role of `{{H7731}}` carries weight within its context, illustrating the defeat of Israel's adversaries.
* **Defeat of Foreign Powers:** Shobach's story is a straightforward account of an enemy commander being defeated. The verbs used—to flee `{{H5127}}`, to smite `{{H5221}}`, and to die `{{H4191}}`—underscore the totality of Israel's victory under David.
* **Consequence of Conflict:** The death of Shobach is a direct result of opposing David's forces. The verb used for the slaughter of his army, `{{H2026}}` **hârag**, is used for deadly and intentional killing throughout scripture, from Cain slaying Abel [[Genesis 4:8]] to divine judgment [[Isaiah 27:1]].
* **A Figure of Opposition:** As "the captain of the host," Shobach represents the organized military might brought against Israel. His death signifies the breaking of that power, a common theme in the historical accounts of David's reign.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7731}}` is not a conceptual term but the name of a person, **Shobach**. He is a minor but specific figure in the Old Testament, a Syrian captain whose sole appearance is in the account of his army's defeat by King David. His brief narrative serves to document a key military victory that consolidated the strength of David's kingdom, illustrating the fate of those who stood in opposition to Israel at that time.
TRV