### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word Shôwbâl (שׁוֹבָל), Strong's number `{{H7732}}`, is a proper noun meaning "overflowing." Its etymological root is closely linked to the noun shobel (שֹׁבֶל), `{{H7731}}`, which refers to the "train" or "skirt" of a garment, implying something that flows, extends, or is abundant. Thus, the name itself conveys a sense of profusion, extension, or perhaps even a rich, trailing quality. As a personal name, "overflowing" could suggest a person of great influence, numerous progeny, or abundant resources.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Shôwbâl (שׁוֹבָל) appears in the Old Testament as the name of two distinct individuals:
1. **An Edomite (Horite) Chief:**
This Shobal is identified as one of the sons of Seir the Horite, an indigenous inhabitant of the land of Seir (Edom) before the arrival of Esau's descendants. He is listed among the chiefs (alluphim) of the Horites.
* [[Genesis 36:20]]: "These are the sons of Seir the Horite, the inhabitants of the land: Lotan, Shobal, Zibeon, Anah," indicating his foundational place in the Horite lineage.
* [[Genesis 36:23]]: Mentions his sons Alvan, Manahath, Ebal, Shepho, and Onam, highlighting his progeny and the establishment of a significant family line within the Horites.
* [[Genesis 36:29]]: Lists him again among the Horite chiefs.
* [[1 Chronicles 1:38]] and [[1 Chronicles 1:40]]: Reiterate his lineage and position as a Horite chief, affirming his historical significance in the genealogies. His inclusion underscores the biblical record's interest in the origins of various peoples, not just Israel.
2. **A Judahite Descendant of Caleb:**
This Shobal belongs to the tribe of Judah, specifically within the lineage of Caleb, son of Hezron. He is noted for his connection to a significant city.
* [[1 Chronicles 2:50]]: "These were the sons of Caleb the son of Hur, the firstborn of Ephrathah: Shobal the father of Kiriath-jearim." This identifies him as a key figure in the founding or development of Kiriath-jearim, a city of considerable importance in Israelite history, particularly as the dwelling place of the Ark of the Covenant for many years ([[1 Samuel 7:1-2]]).
* [[1 Chronicles 4:1]]: "The sons of Judah: Perez, Hezron, Carmi, Hur, and Shobal." This verse further confirms his Judahite lineage and connection to Hur, reinforcing his identity as the "father of Kiriath-jearim." His role as a progenitor of a major city aligns well with the name's meaning of "overflowing" in terms of influence or progeny.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is shobel (שֹׁבֶל), `{{H7731}}`, from which Shôwbâl (שׁוֹבָל) derives its core meaning. This connection emphasizes the idea of a "flowing train" or "extended garment," which metaphorically translates to abundance, breadth, or extensive reach when applied to a person's name.
Conceptually, Shobal relates to:
* **Progenitorship:** Both individuals named Shobal are presented as fathers of significant lineages or cities, embodying the "overflowing" aspect through their descendants.
* **Leadership/Chiefdom:** The Edomite Shobal is explicitly called a "chief," indicating a position of authority and influence.
* **Territorial Association:** The Judahite Shobal is directly linked to Kiriath-jearim, suggesting his role in the establishment or prominence of a specific locale.
* **Genealogy:** The meticulous recording of Shobal's lineage in both contexts highlights the biblical emphasis on family lines, inheritance, and the unfolding of divine purpose through generations.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, Shôwbâl (שׁוֹבָל) does not carry an intrinsic theological doctrine. Its significance lies in its role within the biblical narrative and the individuals it represents.
1. **Divine Providence in Lineage:** The name "overflowing" can subtly point to God's blessing and providence in the expansion of families and peoples. For the Judahite Shobal, his role as "father of Kiriath-jearim" connects him to a city that would later host the Ark of the Covenant, a crucial symbol of God's presence among His people. While Shobal himself is not a theological figure, his place in the genealogy underscores how God works through human lineage to establish key places and people within His redemptive plan.
2. **Sovereignty Over All Nations:** The inclusion of the Edomite Shobal in the biblical genealogies, even though Edom would often be an adversary to Israel, demonstrates God's comprehensive sovereignty over all nations and their histories. The meticulous recording of these "foreign" lineages reflects the biblical worldview that all peoples exist under the purview of the Creator.
3. **Emphasis on Foundation and Continuity:** Both individuals named Shobal represent foundational figures—one for a Horite clan in Edom, the other for a significant city in Judah. Their names, meaning "overflowing," can be seen as reflecting the enduring and expanding nature of the families and communities they helped establish, indicating a continuity of life and influence through divine appointment.
### Summary
Shôwbâl (שׁוֹוָל), `{{H7732}}`, meaning "overflowing," is a proper noun derived from shobel (שֹׁבֶל), `{{H7731}}`, which denotes something that flows or extends, like a garment's train. This name is borne by two distinct individuals in the Old Testament: an Edomite (Horite) chief, son of Seir, whose descendants were foundational in Edom ([[Genesis 36:20]], [[1 Chronicles 1:38]]), and a Judahite, son of Hur and grandson of Caleb, who is identified as the "father of Kiriath-jearim" ([[1 Chronicles 2:50]], [[1 Chronicles 4:1]]). While not a theological term in itself, the name's meaning "overflowing" can be seen as reflective of divine blessing and providence in the establishment and expansion of families, peoples, and territories, underscoring the biblical emphasis on lineage and God's sovereign plan unfolding through human history.
TRV