The Hebrew term Shûwchâmîy, represented by H7749, is a patronymic identifier for a Shuchamite (collectively); Shuhamites. It is derived from the proper name Shuham H7748. This specific term is used infrequently, appearing only 2 times in 2 unique verses, where it designates a particular family group within the nation of Israel.
The use of H7749 is confined to a census account in the book of Numbers. It serves to identify a specific lineage within the tribe of Dan. Scripture establishes this connection by stating that Shuham H7748 is among the sons of Dan H1835, and from him came "the family of the Shuhamites" Numbers 26:42. The subsequent verse provides a precise count of this clan, noting that the numbered families H4940 of the Shuhamites H7749 totaled sixty-four thousand four hundred people Numbers 26:43.
Several related words help clarify the role and context of the Shuhamites:
- H7748 Shûwchâm: This is the proper name of the Israelite from whom the Shuhamites descend. The term H7749 is the direct patronymic form of this name, signifying his descendants Numbers 26:42.
- H1835 Dân: The name of the patriarch of the tribe to which the Shuhamites belong. Shuham is listed as one of his sons, thus placing the Shuhamite family squarely within the tribe of Dan Numbers 26:42.
- H4940 mishpâchâh: This word for family or clan is used repeatedly in the context of the census to classify the Shuhamites as a distinct relational and tribal unit within Israel Numbers 26:42-43.
- H6485 pâqad: Meaning to number or count, this verb is used to describe the action of the census in which the Shuhamites were included, signifying their formal recognition as part of the nation Numbers 26:43.
While not a term with broad theological weight, the significance of H7749 lies in its function within the biblical record of Israel's national identity.
- Genealogical Order: The term highlights the importance of lineage and structured identity in ancient Israel. Being a "Shuhamite" was a specific identity marker that connected individuals to their ancestor, Shuham, and their tribe, Dan Numbers 26:42.
- Covenantal Inclusion: The numbering of the Shuhamites demonstrates their inclusion in the community of Israel. This census was not merely a headcount but a formal accounting of the people bound by covenant to God and preparing to inherit their promised portion of the land Numbers 26:43.
- Tribal Fulfillment: The record of a single family, the Shuhamites, numbering over sixty-four thousand people, illustrates the fulfillment of God's promise to make the descendants of the patriarchs numerous. It shows the substantial growth of the tribe of Dan through its constituent families Numbers 26:43.
In summary, H7749 Shûwchâmîy is a precise genealogical term. Though its usage is limited, it plays a key role in the census narrative of Numbers. It defines a specific family line descended from Shuham within the tribe of Dan, and its inclusion in the census count validates its standing within the nation of Israel. The term exemplifies the meticulous detail with which the Bible records the lineage and structure of God's covenant people.
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