The Hebrew word Shûwʻâʼ, represented by H7774, is a proper name also defined as wealth. It appears only 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The name is used to identify two distinct individuals within the genealogical records of Israel.
The two appearances of H7774 place the name Shua within key lineages in 1 Chronicles. In the first instance, the wife of Judah, who born him three sons H1121, is identified as the daughter H1323 of a Canaanite man named Shua 1 Chronicles 2:3. In the second instance, Shua is the name of a woman, listed as the sister H269 of Japhlet, Shomer, and Hotham, who were all descendants of Heber 1 Chronicles 7:32.
Several related words are used in the same verses as H7774 to establish genealogical connections:
- H1121 bên (a son): Defined as "a builder of the family name," this word is essential for tracking lineage, such as identifying the sons of Judah 1 Chronicles 2:3.
- H1323 bath (a daughter): Used in a wide sense for female descendants, this term establishes identity, as seen with the daughter of Shua 1 Chronicles 2:3.
- H269 ʼâchôwth (a sister): This term for a female sibling is used to specify Shua's relationship to her brothers within her family line 1 Chronicles 7:32.
- H3205 yâlad (to bear young;... to beget): A primitive root central to genealogy, it describes the act of birth or begetting that establishes the family lines in which both individuals named Shua appear (1 Chronicles 2:3, 1 Chronicles 7:32).
While not a major theological term, the inclusion of H7774 in scripture carries significance related to biblical genealogy and record-keeping.
- Recording of Lineage: The name Shua is preserved in the biblical record to precisely identify individuals within family trees. Its presence underscores the value placed on maintaining a clear account of ancestry.
- Male and Female Identity: The name is used for both a man (the father of Judah's wife) and a woman (the sister of Hotham), demonstrating how genealogies recorded key figures regardless of gender to establish a complete family picture (1 Chronicles 2:3, 1 Chronicles 7:32).
- Establishing Relationships: The primary function of Shua in the text is to serve as an anchor for familial relationships, defining individuals in their roles as father, daughter H1323, and sister H269.
In summary, Shûwʻâʼ H7774 is a proper name found exclusively in the genealogical lists of 1 Chronicles. It is used to identify both a Canaanite man and an Israelite woman. Its importance is not found in a deep theological meaning, but in its practical function of clarifying lineage and family structure. The name serves as a marker, connecting individuals to their heritage through foundational relationships like son H1121, daughter H1323, and sister H269.
TRV