### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **shum**, represented by `{{H8036}}`, is the corresponding term for **name**. It appears 12 times across 10 unique verses in the Bible. As an appellation, it serves as a mark or memorial of individuality, and by implication, it can also represent a person's honor, authority, and character.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H8036}}` is applied to both humans and God. It is used for practical identification, as when officials asked for the **names** of the men responsible for rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem ([[Ezra 5:4]], [[Ezra 5:10]]). The word is also central to the identity of the prophet Daniel, who was given the Babylonian **name** Belteshazzar [[Daniel 2:26]]. This act of renaming is explicitly tied to the **name** of a Babylonian god [[Daniel 4:8]]. The divine **name** is invoked to represent God's authority and presence, as when prophets spoke "in the **name** of the God of Israel" [[Ezra 5:1]] or when God caused His **name** to dwell in the temple [[Ezra 6:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the meaning of **name**:
* `{{H1841}}` **Dânîyêʼl** (Daniel): The Hebrew prophet whose identity is often discussed in relation to his **name** and his Babylonian **name**, Belteshazzar [[Daniel 2:26]].
* `{{H1096}}` **Bêlṭᵉshaʼtstsar** (Belteshazzar): The Babylonian **name** given to Daniel. This renaming is significant as it was done "according to the **name** of my god" by the Babylonian king [[Daniel 4:8]].
* `{{H426}}` **ʼĕlâhh** (God, god): The **name** of God is a central theme, representing His character and power. Daniel blesses "the **name** of God" [[Daniel 2:20]], and prophets speak with authority in His **name** [[Ezra 5:1]].
* `{{H7761}}` **sûwm** ([phrase] name): This verb is used with `{{H8036}}` to signify the act of naming, as seen when the king **named** Daniel Belteshazzar [[Daniel 5:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8036}}` is significant, particularly in the books of Daniel and Ezra.
* **Divine Authority and Presence:** The **name** of God represents His active power. Prophets acted with divine authority when they prophesied "in the **name** of the God of Israel" [[Ezra 5:1]]. Similarly, God's power is invoked to protect His temple, the place where He "caused his **name** to dwell" [[Ezra 6:12]].
* **Identity and Allegiance:** A **name** reflects one's core identity. The act of giving Daniel the **name** Belteshazzar was an attempt by a foreign king to assert authority and redefine Daniel's allegiance in relation to a pagan deity [[Daniel 4:8]].
* **A Focus of Worship:** God's **name** is presented as worthy of eternal praise. Upon receiving divine wisdom, Daniel's first act is to exclaim, "Blessed be the **name** of God for ever and ever" [[Daniel 2:20]], directly associating the **name** with God's inherent wisdom and might.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8036}}` is far more than a simple label. It functions as a critical element defining identity, from the practical listing of builders [[Ezra 5:4]] to the complex rebranding of a prophet like Daniel [[Daniel 4:19]]. Theologically, it encapsulates the very character, authority, and praiseworthiness of God Himself. The use of **shum** illustrates how a **name** conveys the essence and honor of its bearer in the Aramaic portions of Scripture.
TRV