### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shôwbâl**, represented by `{{H7732}}`, is a proper name meaning **overflowing**. It appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses**. The name is used to identify an Edomite and two Israelites in biblical genealogies, where it serves to mark specific ancestral lines.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7732}}` is used exclusively as a personal name within genealogical lists. It identifies three distinct individuals. The first is a son{H1121} of Seir{H8165} the Horite{H2752} ([[Genesis 36:20]], [[1 Chronicles 1:38]]) and is also listed as a duke{H441} among the Horites in the land of Edom [[Genesis 36:29]]. Another Shobal appears in the lineage of Judah as a son{H1121} of Caleb{H3612} and grandson of Hur{H2354} [[1 Chronicles 2:50]]. This individual is noted as the father{H1} of Kirjathjearim{H7157} ([[1 Chronicles 2:50]], [[1 Chronicles 2:52]]). A third Shobal is listed simply as one of the sons{H1121} of Judah{H3063} [[1 Chronicles 4:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The genealogical context of `{{H7732}}` is clarified by several key relational terms:
* `{{H1}}` **ʼâb** (father): This word denotes a founder or chief. It is used to describe Shobal as the "father{H1} of Kirjathjearim" [[1 Chronicles 2:50]], establishing him as the progenitor of a place or people.
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): As a word for a son, this term is essential to the structure of the genealogies where Shobal is mentioned. He is listed as one of the "sons{H1121} of Seir" [[Genesis 36:20]] and also as having "sons{H1121}" himself [[1 Chronicles 2:52]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to beget): This verb provides the action for the genealogies, showing how lineages are established. For example, the lineage of Shobal is extended when his son "begat{H3205} Jahath" [[1 Chronicles 4:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7732}}` is not found in the name itself, but in its consistent placement within biblical genealogies, which serve specific purposes.
* **Preservation of Lineage:** The inclusion of Shobal in multiple lists, such as among the sons{H1121} of Seir the Horite [[Genesis 36:20]] and the sons{H1121} of Judah [[1 Chronicles 4:1]], underscores the importance of documenting historical and familial lines.
* **Establishing Territorial and Tribal Identity:** The name is directly linked to leadership and geography. One Shobal is named as a "duke{H441}" of the Horites [[Genesis 36:29]], denoting a position of authority. Another is called the "father{H1} of Kirjathjearim" [[1 Chronicles 2:50]], connecting his lineage to a specific location.
* **Tracking of Families:** The Bible meticulously tracks the descendants of key figures. The children{H1121} of Shobal are explicitly named ([[Genesis 36:23]], [[1 Chronicles 1:40]]), and the lineage of another Shobal is traced through his son to establish "the families{H4940} of the Zorathites{H6882}" [[1 Chronicles 4:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7732}}` is a specific personal name, **Shôwbâl**, used to identify individuals in the genealogies of both Edom and Israel. While its root suggests "overflowing," its biblical role is to anchor lineages within the historical record. The name appears exclusively in lists that trace ancestry, connecting specific men to their fathers, sons, and the territories they founded or inhabited. Therefore, the significance of **Shôwbâl** lies not in any abstract concept, but in its function as a marker of identity and heritage within the detailed family records of the Old Testament.
TRV