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