The Hebrew word Shâmûwr, represented by H8053, is an Israelite personal name meaning observed. It is also noted as Shamir in the margin. This name appears only 1 time in the Bible, found in a single verse, highlighting its specific and limited use within the biblical text.
The sole appearance of H8053 is within a genealogical record in the book of 1 Chronicles. The verse states, "Of the sons of Uzziel; Michah: of the sons of Michah; Shamir" 1 Chronicles 24:24. This context places Shamir squarely within a Levitical lineage, identifying him as the son of Michah and the grandson of Uzziel. His mention serves to document the family lines responsible for duties associated with the sanctuary.
Several related words are essential for understanding Shamir's identity and placement in the biblical record:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word is fundamental to the verse where Shamir is mentioned, establishing the direct genealogical links from Uzziel to Michah and from Michah to Shamir 1 Chronicles 24:24. It is the structural basis for tracing lineage throughout scripture.
- H4318 Mîykâh (Micah, the name of seven Israelites): As the father of Shamir, Michah is the immediate ancestor connecting him to the larger family of Uzziel 1 Chronicles 24:24.
- H5816 ʻUzzîyʼêl (strength of God; Uzziel, the name of six Israelites): Shamir's grandfather, Uzziel, is identified as a son of Kohath and a descendant of Levi, firmly establishing this family line within the Levitical tribe Exodus 6:18.
The significance of H8053 is rooted in its context within Israel's sacred history.
- Levitical Lineage: Shamir's inclusion in the genealogy of 1 Chronicles is significant because it is a record of the Levites. This places him within the tribe set apart by God for specific religious service and stewardship of the sanctuary.
- Genealogical Integrity: The mention of Shamir, however brief, underscores the importance placed on maintaining a precise and detailed record of ancestry in ancient Israel. This documentation was crucial for inheritance, social standing, and fulfilling roles assigned to specific families.
In summary, H8053 Shâmûwr is the name of an individual, Shamir, whose identity is preserved in scripture for a single purpose: to document a specific branch of the Levitical priesthood. While the name itself means "observed," its primary function in the Bible is to mark a place within the carefully recorded lineage of the sons of Uzziel, contributing to the larger narrative of Israel's tribal and religious structure.
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