### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shᵉmîydâʻ**, represented by `{{H8061}}`, is a proper name for an Israelite. Its definition is "name of knowing." This name appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. It identifies a specific individual within the tribe of Manasseh who became the head of a family line.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Shᵉmîydâʻ is identified as a descendant of Manasseh, the son of Joseph. His place in the genealogy is established during the allotment of land, where the "children of **Shemida**" are listed among the male children of Manasseh who received a lot [[Joshua 17:2]]. A census recorded in Numbers confirms his role as a progenitor, mentioning "of **Shemida**, the family of the Shemidaites" [[Numbers 26:32]]. His lineage is further detailed in the book of Chronicles, which names the sons of **Shemida** as Ahian, Shechem, Likhi, and Aniam [[1 Chronicles 7:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The identity of Shᵉmîydâʻ is established through terms that define kinship and tribal structure:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is fundamental to tracing Shᵉmîydâʻ's lineage. He is listed among the "children{H1121} of Manasseh" [[Joshua 17:2]], and the Bible in turn lists his own "sons{H1121}" [[1 Chronicles 7:19]]. This term acts as a builder of the family name and line of descent.
* `{{H4940}}` **mishpâchâh** (a family): This term defines the social unit that Shᵉmîydâʻ founded. The record of "the family{H4940} of the Shemidaites" [[Numbers 26:32]] shows that his descendants formed a recognized clan within Israel. He is also situated within the larger lineage of Manasseh "by their families{H4940}" [[Joshua 17:2]].
### Theological Significance
While Shᵉmîydâʻ is not a central character in major biblical events, his inclusion carries significance for understanding Israelite society and God's covenant.
* **Genealogical Integrity:** The careful documentation of Shᵉmîydâʻ and his sons underscores the importance of lineage in Israel. This record was essential for establishing identity, tribal affiliation, and inheritance rights within the Promised Land [[Joshua 17:2]].
* **Covenantal Identity:** As a descendant of Joseph through Manasseh, Shᵉmîydâʻ's existence is a testament to the fulfillment of God's promises. His family is counted among the "families of the earth" [[Genesis 12:3]] that constitute the people of Israel.
* **The Family as a Unit:** The mention of "the family of the Shemidaites" [[Numbers 26:32]] illustrates the foundational role of the `{{H4940}}` **mishpâchâh** in national life. These family units were the building blocks of the tribes and the entire nation brought to Zion [[Jeremiah 3:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8061}}` **Shᵉmîydâʻ** is more than just a name in a list. As the "name of knowing," he represents a known and recorded link in the chain of Israel's heritage. His appearances in scripture, though brief, are vital for illustrating the meticulous preservation of genealogy, the distribution of tribal inheritance, and the foundational importance of the family unit in the life of ancient Israel.
TRV