The Hebrew word shômaʻ, represented by H8089, means a report or fame. It is derived from the word שָׁמַע (shâmaʻ). Appearing only 4 times in 4 unique verses, its usage highlights how the reputation of individuals and of God Himself is communicated.
In scripture, H8089 is used to describe the spreading reputation of key figures. After the fall of Jericho, Joshua's H3091 fame was noised throughout the country because the LORD H3068 was with him Joshua 6:27. Similarly, Mordecai's H4782 fame went out H1980 through all the provinces H4082 as he became great H1419 in the king's H4428 house H1004 Esther 9:4. The word also refers to the report of God's power, as the Gibeonites came from a far country after they heard H8085 the fame of the LORD and his deeds in Egypt H4714 Joshua 9:9. A report can also inspire fear, as when the people heard the fame of their enemy, their hands H3027 grew feeble H7503 and anguish H6869 took hold of them Jeremiah 6:24.
Several related words provide deeper context for the concept of fame and reports:
- H8085 shâmaʻ (to hear intelligently): As the root of H8089, this word is essential. Fame is something that must be heard (Jeremiah 6:24, Joshua 9:9).
- H8034 shêm (an appellation... fame... renown, report): This word is closely linked to reputation and character. The report of God's actions is tied to His name Joshua 9:9.
- H1419 gâdôwl (great): Fame is often a consequence of greatness. Mordecai's fame spread because he was great in the king's house Esther 9:4.
The theological significance of H8089 lies in what it reveals about the source and effect of a reputation:
- Divine Endorsement: The fame of a leader like Joshua H3091 is directly attributed to the LORD H3068 being with him, demonstrating that true renown comes from God Joshua 6:27.
- Reputation of God's Power: The fame of the LORD is based on His powerful deeds, such as those He did H6213 in Egypt H4714. This report of God's actions travels to far H7350 countries H776 and influences the actions of nations Joshua 9:9.
- Human Influence: In the case of Mordecai H4782, his increasing fame reflects his growing influence and greatness H1419 within the king's H4428 government, which was pivotal for his people Esther 9:4.
- The Power of a Report: A fame or report can have tangible emotional and physical effects, causing anguish H6869 and making hands H3027 wax feeble H7503 upon hearing it Jeremiah 6:24.
In summary, shômaʻ H8089 is a concise but potent term for fame or a report. Though used sparingly, its occurrences illustrate that a reputation is built on observable actions, whether it is the growing influence of a man like Mordecai or the mighty deeds of the LORD. The spreading of this fame can inspire both awe and fear, showing the power carried by a name or report.
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