שַׁמָּא

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew word Shamma, transliterated from שַׁמָּא and represented by H8037, is derived from a root word meaning desolation. It is used in scripture as the proper name of an Israelite. This name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, making its usage highly specific.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The single biblical appearance of H8037 is within a genealogical list. In 1 Chronicles 7:37, Shamma is named among a group of individuals, establishing his place within the formal record of Israelite lineage. The verse simply lists him alongside others without providing any further narrative or biographical details.

Related Words & Concepts

The context of H8037 places it alongside several other names, which are key to its placement within the biblical record:

• H1221 Betser: Defined as an inaccessible spot, this name refers to both an Israelite and a place in Palestine; Bezer. He is listed directly before Shamma 1 Chronicles 7:37.
• H1936 Hôwd: Meaning Hod, an Israelite, this individual is also mentioned in the same list 1 Chronicles 7:37.
• H8030 Shilshâh: Defined as triplication, this name identifies Shilshah, an Israelite, listed with Shamma 1 Chronicles 7:37.
• H3506 Yithrân: Meaning excellent, this is the name Jithran, the name of an Edomite and of an Israelite; Ithran 1 Chronicles 7:37.
• H878 Bᵉʼêrâʼ: Meaning a well, this name identifies Beera, an Israelite, and concludes the list where Shamma is found 1 Chronicles 7:37.

Theological Significance

The theological significance of H8037 is tied to its function within scripture rather than an explicit doctrine.

• Preservation of Lineage: The inclusion of Shamma in the genealogy of 1 Chronicles 7:37 serves the vital purpose of documenting and preserving the heritage of the tribes of Israel.
• Meaning in a Name: While the context is purely genealogical, the name Shamma itself means desolation. This embeds a theologically significant concept into the biblical record, even if the individual's story is not explored.

Summary

In summary, H8037 Shamma is a name that appears once in the Old Testament. Its primary function is to identify an Israelite within a formal genealogy, underscoring the importance of lineage in the biblical narrative. Though the person named Shamma is not detailed, the name's root meaning, desolation, carries a weight of its own, marking a specific individual in the annals of Israel's history.