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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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