The Hebrew name Shûwchâh, represented by H7746, identifies a specific Israelite. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible. The name's definition is simply Shuchah, an Israelite; Shuah, indicating its use as a proper noun to name an individual within a genealogy. Its role in scripture is exclusively for the purpose of identification within a family line.
The sole appearance of H7746 is in a genealogical record within the book of 1 Chronicles. The verse states, "And Chelub the brother of Shuah begat Mehir" 1 Chronicles 4:11. In this context, Shuah serves as a relational marker, identifying an individual named Chelub through his sibling relationship. The focus of the passage is on the lineage originating from Chelub, not from Shuah himself.
Several related words appear alongside Shûwchâh in its only biblical context, establishing a genealogical framework:
- H3620 Kᵉlûwb (Kelub, the name of two Israelites; Chelub): This is the name of Shuah's brother, whose descendants are being listed 1 Chronicles 4:11.
- H251 ʼâch (a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance (like father)); another, brother(-ly); kindred, like, other): This word defines the direct familial relationship between Chelub and Shuah 1 Chronicles 4:11.
- H3205 yâlad (a primitive root; to bear young; causatively, to beget... specifically, to show lineage): This verb is central to the passage, as it establishes the act of fathering that continues the lineage from Chelub 1 Chronicles 4:11.
- H4243 Mᵉchîyr (the same as מְחִיר; price; Mechir, an Israelite; Mehir): This is the name of the individual whom Chelub begat 1 Chronicles 4:11.
- H850 ʼEshtôwn (probably from the same as שׁוּנִי; restful; Eshton, an Israelite; Eshton): Mentioned as the son of Mehir, making him the grandson of Chelub 1 Chronicles 4:11.
- H1 ʼâb (a primitive word; father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application): This term is used to describe Mehir's role as the father of Eshton, continuing the genealogical record 1 Chronicles 4:11.
The significance of H7746 is tied directly to its function within biblical genealogies.
- Preservation of Lineage: The mention of Shuah is part of the careful recording of family lines, which was vital for establishing heritage and identity for the Israelites.
- Relational Identity: Shuah's sole mention serves to identify another person, Chelub, highlighting the importance of kinship and brotherhood in defining an individual's place within the community 1 Chronicles 4:11.
- Continuity of Family: By being part of this genealogical list, the name contributes to the larger biblical narrative of generational continuity, where individuals are remembered as part of a family line that extends through time.
In summary, Shûwchâh H7746 is not a word with broad theological application but a specific proper name with a singular, precise function. Its sole appearance in scripture is to help identify his brother, Chelub, within a genealogical record. The significance of Shuah lies in its role as a single link in the meticulously documented chain of Israelite ancestry, demonstrating the value placed on lineage and familial identity in the biblical record.
TRV