### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shûwach**, represented by `{{H7744}}`, is primarily known as the proper name **Shuah**. Its base definition is "dell; Shuach, a son of Abraham; Shuah." This name appears just **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently identifying an individual in the patriarchal genealogies.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7744}}` appears exclusively in lists of Abraham's descendants. [[Genesis 25:2]] names **Shuah** as one of the sons that Keturah bare to Abraham. The parallel account in [[1 Chronicles 1:32]] confirms this, stating that the "sons of Keturah, Abraham's concubine" included **Shuah**. These verses firmly place him within the lineage of Abraham.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the genealogical lists provide context for Shuah's identity:
* `{{H85}}` **ʼAbrâhâm** (Abraham): Defined as "father of a multitude; Abraham, the later name of Abram," this is the patriarch from whom **Shuah** descends [[1 Chronicles 1:32]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): Meaning "a son (as a builder of the family name)," this word is used to classify **Shuah** and his brothers as the "sons of Keturah" [[1 Chronicles 1:32]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to bear young): This verb, meaning "to bear young; causatively, to beget," is used in both accounts to describe how Keturah "bare" **Shuah** ([[Genesis 25:2]], [[1 Chronicles 1:32]]).
* `{{H6370}}` **pîylegesh** (concubine): This term is applied to Keturah, **Shuah's** mother, defining her status as "Abraham's concubine" [[1 Chronicles 1:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7744}}` is tied to its role in the patriarchal history.
* **Genealogical Integrity:** The inclusion of **Shuah** in the genealogies of both Genesis and 1 Chronicles highlights the scriptural emphasis on preserving the historical record of Abraham's descendants.
* **Patriarchal Lineage:** As a son of Abraham, **Shuah** is part of the broader patriarchal family. His existence is part of the record of Abraham's many descendants.
* **Distinction in Heritage:** The mention of his mother Keturah as a "concubine" `{{H6370}}` is significant. Scripture notes that Abraham made a distinction between Isaac and the "sons of the concubines," whom he sent away with gifts, setting them apart from the primary covenant line [[Genesis 25:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7744}}` **Shuah** is not a term with complex theological meaning but a proper name marking a specific individual. His significance lies in his place within the family of Abraham. The two verses where his name appears serve to document the breadth of Abraham's lineage while also reinforcing the unique covenantal status reserved for the line of Isaac. The name's presence is a detail that contributes to the comprehensive genealogical records of the Old Testament.
TRV