The Hebrew word Samlâh, represented by H8072, is the name of an Edomite king. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. The name is found exclusively within genealogical lists that record the succession of rulers in Edom.
In the biblical narrative, H8072 marks a specific point in the lineage of Edomite kings. The accounts in both Genesis and 1 Chronicles state that Samlah of Masrekah began his reign after the death of the previous king, Hadad (Genesis 36:36; 1 Chronicles 1:47). His own reign concludes with his death, at which point he is succeeded by Shaul of Rehoboth by the river (Genesis 36:37; 1 Chronicles 1:48). This consistent, formulaic mention establishes his place within a historical succession.
Several related words provide context for the history of Samlah:
- H1908 Hădad (Hadad): The name of the Edomite king who preceded Samlah. The death of Hadad is the event that leads to Samlah ascending the throne 1 Chronicles 1:47.
- H4957 Masrêqâh (vineyard; Masrekah): The place in Idumaea from which Samlah originated. He is identified as "Samlah of Masrekah" Genesis 36:36.
- H4427 mâlak (to reign): This primitive root describes the primary action associated with Samlah. The texts state that he reigned in the stead of his predecessor Genesis 36:36.
- H7586 Shâʼûwl (asked; Shaul): The name of the king who succeeded Samlah after his death. The transition of power from Samlah to Shaul completes the record of his rule 1 Chronicles 1:48.
- H4191 mûwth (to die): This verb frames Samlah's reign. His rule begins when Hadad was dead 1 Chronicles 1:47 and ends when Samlah himself was dead 1 Chronicles 1:48.
The brief entries for H8072 contribute to a broader biblical theme regarding the nature of human authority.
- Historical Record: The inclusion of Samlah, his predecessor, his successor, and his place of origin demonstrates the scriptural concern for documenting the lineage of nations, including Edom Genesis 36:36.
- Cycle of Succession: The narrative pattern "And [King A] died, and [King B] reigned in his stead" is the only context in which Samlah appears. This highlights the transient and cyclical nature of earthly rule (Genesis 36:37; 1 Chronicles 1:48).
- Finite Reigns: The verb used for Samlah's rule, mâlak H4427, is also used throughout scripture to declare that "The LORD reigneth" Psalms 93:1 and "Thy God reigneth" Isaiah 52:7, placing the temporary reigns of human kings like Samlah within the context of divine sovereignty.
In summary, H8072 is the proper name Samlah, an Edomite king mentioned in the genealogies of Genesis and 1 Chronicles. While his personal story is not detailed, his inclusion serves a clear purpose: to meticulously document the line of Edomite rulers. His narrative is defined by the unceasing cycle of death and succession, illustrating the finite nature of human power as recorded in the history of the nations.
TRV