### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma שַׂמְלָה (Samlâh), transliterated as Samlah and designated by `{{H8072}}`, is a proper noun. Its core meaning refers exclusively to a specific individual: one of the early kings of Edom. Unlike common nouns, its semantic range is not fluid but fixed to this particular historical figure. The Strong's definition notes its probable connection to שִׂמְלָה (simlâh), `{{H8071}}`, which means "garment," "cloak," or "mantle." While this etymological link suggests a potential background meaning for the name itself (e.g., "clothed" or "attired"), for the purposes of this word study, Samlah is understood primarily as a personal name identifying a specific monarch in the lineage of Esau.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Samlah, the Edomite king, appears in two primary biblical passages: [[Genesis 36]] and [[1 Chronicles 1]]. Both chapters provide genealogical records and king lists, detailing the succession of rulers in Edom.
In [[Genesis 36:36]], Samlah is introduced as the successor to Hadad, the son of Bedad, and is noted as hailing from Masrekah. His reign is immediately followed by that of Saul of Rehoboth on the River, as mentioned in [[Genesis 36:37]]. The parallel account in [[1 Chronicles 1:47-48]] largely corroborates this information, placing Samlah in the identical position within the Edomite royal lineage.
These occurrences provide no narrative details about Samlah's deeds, policies, or the duration of his reign. His inclusion serves primarily to complete the historical and genealogical record of Edomite kingship, emphasizing that a monarchy was established in Edom "before any king reigned over the Israelites" ([[Genesis 36:31]]). This detail highlights the distinct and early development of national identity and political structure among the descendants of Esau, fulfilling the divine promise of nations descending from him. Samlah's presence underscores the Bible's meticulous recording of historical lineages, even for nations outside the direct covenant line of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to Samlah (`{{H8072}}`) is its probable etymological root, שִׂמְלָה (simlâh), `{{H8071}}`, which denotes a "garment," "cloak," or "mantle." While the proper noun Samlah does not carry the meaning of "garment," the underlying connection might subtly allude to concepts such as covering, protection, or even a symbol of authority (as garments often were in the ancient world).
Conceptually, Samlah is intrinsically linked to:
* **Edomite Kingship:** His position in the king lists illustrates the early establishment of monarchical rule among Esau's descendants, a parallel development to, yet distinct from, the later institution of kingship in Israel.
* **Biblical Genealogies:** Samlah's inclusion contributes to the comprehensive genealogical frameworks in Genesis and Chronicles, which serve to establish historical continuity, trace national origins, and demonstrate the fulfillment of divine promises.
* **Esau's Descendants:** As an Edomite king, Samlah is a testament to the numerous and powerful descendants of Esau, illustrating the blessing upon him, even as the covenantal blessing was passed through Jacob.
* **Ancient Near Eastern Naming Conventions:** While specific meaning is not provided for Samlah's character, the etymological link to "garment" reflects a common practice where names could carry symbolic weight or aspirations.
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of Samlah, an Edomite king, in the inspired biblical text carries several theological implications:
* **Divine Sovereignty Over All Nations:** Samlah's presence in the biblical record, despite his being a ruler of a nation often adversarial to Israel, underscores God's comprehensive sovereignty. The Bible acknowledges that the rise and fall of all peoples, including those outside the covenant community, occur within the scope of divine knowledge and permission.
* **Fulfillment of Prophecy:** The existence of an established kingdom in Edom, with its own line of kings like Samlah, serves as a historical fulfillment of prophecies concerning Esau's descendants. For instance, the oracle to Rebekah in [[Genesis 25:23]] speaks of "two nations" from her womb, and the blessing to Esau in [[Genesis 27:40]] foretells his living by the sword and eventually breaking his brother's yoke. Samlah's reign is a tangible marker of Edom's distinct national identity and power.
* **Historical Integrity and Scope of Scripture:** The meticulous recording of foreign kings demonstrates the Bible's commitment to historical accuracy and its broader scope in tracing the origins and developments of peoples in the ancient world, not solely focusing on Israel. This reinforces the trustworthiness of the biblical narrative as a whole.
* **The Contrast with Israel's Kingship:** The recurring phrase "before any king reigned over the Israelites" ([[Genesis 36:31]]) implicitly highlights a theological distinction. While Edom developed a monarchy organically, Israel's kingship was a later, divinely instituted phenomenon, often presented as a concession to the people's desire rather than an initial divine ideal. This emphasizes the unique nature of God's covenant and relationship with Israel.
### Summary
The Hebrew word שַׂמְלָה (Samlâh), `{{H8072}}`, is a proper noun identifying one of the early kings of Edom. Found in the genealogical lists of [[Genesis 36]] and [[1 Chronicles 1]], Samlah is positioned as a successor in the Edomite royal line, reigning from Masrekah. While no specific actions are attributed to him, his inclusion is vital for the completeness of the biblical historical record concerning the descendants of Esau. Etymologically, the name is thought to be related to שִׂמְלָה (simlâh), `{{H8071}}`, meaning "garment" or "cloak," though this connection primarily informs the name's potential origin rather than its direct meaning as a proper noun. Theologically, Samlah's presence underscores God's universal sovereignty, the historical fulfillment of prophecies regarding Edom, and the meticulous nature of biblical genealogies. His reign also serves as a subtle contrast to the later, divinely ordained institution of kingship within Israel, highlighting the distinct paths of the two brother nations.
TRV