from שׁוּחַ; dell; Shuach, a son of Abraham; Shuah.
Transliteration:Shûwach
Pronunciation:shoo'-akh
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H7744}}` (שׁוּחַ), transliterated as *Shûwach*, primarily functions as a proper noun, referring to a specific individual. Its base definition indicates a derivation "from שׁוּחַ," which is the verbal root meaning "to sink down," "to bow down," or "to be depressed." This verbal root can also denote a "dell" or "pit," suggesting a low-lying or depressed area of land. Therefore, the name *Shûwach* itself might carry the connotation of "lowland" or "humble," reflecting the semantic range of its parent root. As a proper noun, however, its semantic range is restricted to identifying the individual in question within the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The proper noun `{{H7744}}` (שׁוּחַ) appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, both instances referring to the same person, Shuah, a son of Abraham.
1. **[[Genesis 25:2]]**: "And she bare him Zimran, and Jokshan, and Medan, and Midian, and Ishbak, and Shuah." This verse introduces Shuah as one of the six sons born to Abraham by his concubine Keturah, after the death of Sarah. This listing occurs within the broader context of Abraham's descendants, distinguishing them from the primary line of promise through Isaac. The immediate context is a genealogical record, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would be a father of many nations, even beyond the covenant line.
2. **[[1 Chronicles 1:32]]**: "The sons of Keturah, Abraham’s concubine: she bare Zimran, and Jokshan, and Medan, and Midian, and Ishbak, and Shuah." This occurrence is a direct reiteration of the genealogy found in Genesis, presented in the extensive genealogical records of 1 Chronicles. The purpose here is to trace the lineage of Israel and to establish the historical continuity of God's dealings with humanity, beginning with Adam and extending through the patriarchs. The consistent listing of Shuah alongside his brothers underscores the accuracy and preservation of these ancient records.
In both contexts, Shuah is presented as a significant, albeit secondary, figure in Abraham's extended family, contributing to the vast array of descendants that originated from the patriarch.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related linguistic element to `{{H7744}}` (שׁוּחַ) is its verbal root, also transliterated as *shûwach* (though often distinguished by context or pointing), which signifies "to sink," "to bow down," or "to be depressed." This root is distinct from other similar-sounding words like `{{H7882}}` (שִׁיחַ, *shiyach*), meaning "pit" or "well," although they share a conceptual connection to depression or depth. The name Shuah, therefore, likely carries a meaning related to "lowland" or "dell," consistent with the verbal root's semantic field.
Conceptually, Shuah is related to the broader theme of Abraham's numerous descendants. He is grouped with his brothers, such as Midian, who became the progenitor of the Midianites, a people frequently encountered in Israel's history. This connection places Shuah within the orbit of those "nations" that sprang from Abraham but were not part of the direct covenant line that passed through Isaac and Jacob. Other related concepts include:
* **Patriarchal Genealogies**: Shuah's inclusion highlights the importance of lineage and family in the biblical narrative, particularly in establishing the origins of various peoples.
* **Promise to Abraham**: His existence, along with his brothers, serves as a testament to the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would be a "father of many nations" [[Genesis 17:4]].
### Theological Significance
While Shuah himself does not play an active role in the theological drama of the Bible, his inclusion in the sacred text carries subtle but profound theological significance:
1. **Fulfillment of Divine Promise**: Shuah's birth and listing among Abraham's sons by Keturah underscore the expansive nature of God's blessing upon Abraham. God promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations, and the progeny through Keturah, including Shuah, illustrate the literal fulfillment of this promise, even beyond the direct covenant line of Isaac. This demonstrates God's faithfulness to His word.
2. **Scope of Abraham's Legacy**: The presence of Shuah and his brothers in the genealogies reminds the reader that Abraham's influence extended far beyond the nation of Israel. Various peoples and tribes traced their origins back to him, testifying to the breadth of his patriarchal legacy, even if they were not the inheritors of the specific covenant promises given to Isaac and Jacob.
3. **Distinction of Covenant Line**: By listing Shuah and his brothers, the biblical text implicitly highlights the unique and distinct nature of the covenant line that passed through Isaac. While all Abraham's descendants were blessed, the specific promises concerning the land, the nation, and the Messiah were reserved for the line of Isaac, emphasizing God's sovereign choice and election. Shuah's lineage, therefore, serves as a backdrop against which the particularity of Israel's election is made clear.
### Summary
`{{H7744}}` (שׁוּחַ), or Shuah, is a proper noun referring to one of Abraham's sons by Keturah. Derived from a verbal root meaning "to sink" or "to be depressed," possibly implying "lowland" or "humble," the name appears twice in the biblical genealogies, in [[Genesis 25:2]] and [[1 Chronicles 1:32]]. Shuah's significance is not found in personal action but in his inclusion within the broader narrative of Abraham's descendants. Theologically, his presence underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to make Abraham the father of many nations, demonstrates the extensive reach of Abraham's legacy, and subtly emphasizes the distinct and chosen nature of the covenant line that proceeded through Isaac, thereby affirming God's faithfulness and sovereign plan.
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