### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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