The Hebrew word Shôwmêr, represented by H7763, primarily functions as a proper name. Its base definition is keeper, and it appears 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible, each instance referring to a different Israelite.
In the biblical narrative, H7763 is used to identify two individuals. The first mention is in a genealogy, where Shomer is listed as one of the sons of Heber 1 Chronicles 7:32. The second and more prominent reference identifies a different Shomer as the father of Jehozabad. This Jehozabad, along with another man, were described as servants who conspired against the king and smote him 2 Kings 12:21.
Several related words are connected to the narrative involving Shomer's son, Jehozabad:
- H3075 Yᵉhôwzâbâd (Jehovah-endowed): This is the name of Shomer's son, who was one of the two servants involved in the conspiracy against the king 2 Kings 12:21.
- H5650 ʻebed (a servant): This term is used to describe the official position of Shomer's son, Jehozabad, highlighting his role within the king's court before the conspiracy 2 Kings 12:21.
- H5221 nâkâh (to strike): This primitive root describes the violent action taken by Shomer's son and his co-conspirator against the king, resulting in his death 2 Kings 12:21.
While H7763 is a name and not a theological term, its significance is derived from the actions of the individuals associated with it.
- Association with Conspiracy: The name Shomer is linked to a significant act of regicide through his son, Jehozabad, one of the two servants H5650 who smote the king 2 Kings 12:21.
- The Gravity of "Smiting": The verb used for the act, nâkâh H5221, is used elsewhere to describe acts of divine judgment, such as the Lord smiting the earth Malachi 4:6 or the shepherd being smitten Zechariah 13:7, underscoring the severity of the event.
- The Identity of a Servant: The designation of Shomer's son as a servant H5650 who kills his master provides a stark narrative example of betrayal, contrasting with the many instances where "servant" is a title of honor for those faithful to God, such as the prophets Amos 3:7.
In summary, H7763 Shôwmêr is a proper name whose meaning, keeper, stands in ironic contrast to the story of his son. The name itself is found only in genealogical and historical records. Its main importance in the biblical text comes from its connection to the dramatic and violent narrative of a servant's conspiracy, linking the name Shomer to a story of betrayal and judgment.
TRV