The Hebrew word Shammâh, represented by H8048, is a personal name for an Edomite and four Israelites. According to its base definition, it is the same as שַׁמָּה. It appears 8 times across 8 unique verses in the Bible. The name is used to identify distinct individuals in key genealogical and historical records.
In the biblical narrative, H8048 identifies several individuals. In the lineage of Esau, Shammah is named as a son of Reuel and a duke in the land of Edom Genesis 36:17. Within Israel, Shammah was the third son of Jesse, presented to Samuel but not chosen by the LORD 1 Samuel 16:9. He later followed Saul into battle alongside his two elder brothers 1 Samuel 17:13. The name also belongs to some of David's mighty men, including Shammah the son of Agee the Hararite, who defended a field of lentiles from the Philistines 2 Samuel 23:11, Shammah the Harodite 2 Samuel 23:25, and Shammah the Hararite 2 Samuel 23:33.
Several related words clarify the familial and tribal connections of the individuals named Shammah:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word establishes the lineage of each Shammah, identifying him as the son of Jesse 1 Samuel 17:13, the son of Reuel Genesis 36:13, or the son of Agee 2 Samuel 23:11.
- H7467 Rᵉʻûwʼêl (friend of God; Reuel): This is the name of the father of the Edomite duke Shammah, linking Shammah to the line of Esau Genesis 36:13.
- H2226 Zerach (Zerach): Listed as a son of Reuel alongside Shammah, identifying Zerah as his brother in the Edomite genealogy 1 Chronicles 1:37.
- H5184 Nachath (quiet; Nachath): Another son of Reuel and brother of Shammah, listed as a duke of Edom Genesis 36:17.
- H4199 Mizzâh (terror; Mizzah): The fourth son of Reuel listed with Shammah, establishing him as another brother and duke in the Edomite lineage Genesis 36:17.
While a personal name, the occurrences of H8048 carry significance within their contexts. The individuals named Shammah appear in narratives that highlight key themes.
- Genealogical Lineage: The inclusion of Shammah as a duke of Edom establishes his role in the leadership structure of that nation, descended from Esau through Reuel Genesis 36:17. This provides an important record of tribal identity and hierarchy.
- Divine Sovereignty: When Jesse's sons are presented to Samuel, the passing over of Shammah demonstrates that the LORD's choice is not based on human criteria 1 Samuel 16:9. This event underscores God's sovereignty in selecting a king for Israel.
- Individual Courage: The account of Shammah, the son of Agee, highlights remarkable valor. When the people fled from the Philistines, he stood his ground alone to defend a piece of ground, showcasing faithfulness and bravery 2 Samuel 23:11.
In summary, H8048 is not a conceptual term but a proper name, Shammah, that designates several important figures in the Old Testament. From an Edomite duke establishing a non-Israelite lineage to the son of Jesse who was part of the story of David's anointing, the name is tied to foundational narratives. The name is also associated with the courage of David's mighty men, illustrating how individuals play crucial roles in the unfolding history of Israel.
TRV