The Hebrew word Shemaʻ, represented by H8087, is the name of a place in Palestine and of four Israelites. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible, primarily within genealogical records and historical narratives in 1 Chronicles and Nehemiah.
In the biblical narrative, H8087 is used to identify several individuals. In genealogical contexts, Shema is listed as one of the sons of Hebron 1 Chronicles 2:43 and is noted for having begat Raham, the father of Jorkoam 1 Chronicles 2:44. Another Shema appears in the lineage of Joel as the grandfather of Bela 1 Chronicles 5:8. In a leadership capacity, a man named Shema, along with Beriah, is identified as one of the heads of the fathers for the inhabitants of Aijalon 1 Chronicles 8:13. Finally, a Shema is among the men who stood beside Ezra the scribe on his right hand during the public reading of the law Nehemiah 8:4.
Several related words help contextualize the identity and role of Shema:
- H2275 Chebrôwn (Hebron): Defined as the "seat of association," Hebron is a significant place in Palestine. Shema is named as one of the "sons of Hebron," connecting him to this important lineage and location 1 Chronicles 2:43.
- H1283 Bᵉrîyʻâh (Beriah): The name of four Israelites, meaning "in trouble." Shema is mentioned alongside Beriah as co-leaders who were "heads of the fathers" of Aijalon's inhabitants 1 Chronicles 8:13.
- H3205 yâlad (begat): A primitive root used "to show lineage." This verb is crucial for understanding Shema's role in ancestral lines, as seen in the record that "Shema begat Raham" 1 Chronicles 2:44.
The accounts of Shema, though brief, touch on several important themes.
- Genealogical Importance: The name Shema appears in multiple ancestral records, underscoring the significance of lineage in biblical history. He is part of the lineage of Hebron 1 Chronicles 2:43 and is a direct ancestor of Raham and Bela in separate family lines (1 Chronicles 2:44, 1 Chronicles 5:8).
- Tribal Leadership: Shema is recorded as one of the "heads of the fathers" for the inhabitants of Aijalon 1 Chronicles 8:13. This position signifies authority and responsibility for a family clan that drove away the inhabitants of Gath.
- Commitment to God's Word: In a key moment of national revival, Shema is named among those who stood with Ezra as the law was read to the people Nehemiah 8:4. His prominent position on the wooden pulpit signifies public support for this spiritual renewal.
In summary, H8087 Shemaʻ is a name assigned to several individuals who play specific, supportive roles in the biblical record. The name appears primarily within genealogical lists, establishing family lines and tribal connections (1 Chronicles 2:43, 1 Chronicles 5:8). Beyond lineage, a Shema is also identified as a leader of his people 1 Chronicles 8:13 and as a supporter present at the public reading of God's law Nehemiah 8:4. These distinct appearances illustrate the importance of individual roles within the larger story of Israel's history and covenant community.
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