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