The Hebrew word Shâmâʻ, represented by H8091, is the proper name of an Israelite. Derived from a root meaning "obedient," this name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its sole function is to identify a specific individual within a genealogical listing.
The single appearance of H8091 is in a list of notable individuals. In the biblical narrative, Shama is identified as one of the sons of Hothan the Aroerite, mentioned alongside his brother Jehiel and another man, Uzzia the Ashterathite 1 Chronicles 11:44. This places him within a specific family and geographic context, but no further details about his life or actions are provided in scripture.
The context of H8091 connects it to several other names and terms that define its relationships:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word establishes Shama's identity in relation to his father. The term is fundamental to biblical genealogies and the passing on of heritage, as seen in the command to teach God's works to "thy sons, and thy sons' sons" Deuteronomy 4:9.
- H3273 Yᵉʻîyʼêl (carried away of God): This is the name of Shama's brother, Jehiel. The name appears elsewhere, identifying individuals involved in musical worship and service as Levites 1 Chronicles 15:21.
- H2369 Chôwthâm (seal): The name of Shama's father, Hothan. This name also appears in another genealogy as a son of Heber 1 Chronicles 7:32.
- H5814 ʻUzzîyâʼ (Uzzia, an Israelite): The name of the man listed just before Shama in the same verse 1 Chronicles 11:44.
- H6200 ʻĂrôʻêrîy (an Aroerite): This term identifies Shama's father, Hothan, as being an inhabitant of Aroer 1 Chronicles 11:44.
- H6254 ʻAshtᵉrâthîy (an Ashterathite): This term identifies Uzzia as being an inhabitant of Ashtaroth 1 Chronicles 11:44.
While the name H8091 itself carries little direct theological weight, its context within a genealogy connects it to broader biblical themes, particularly through the word bên (son).
- Generational Faith: The relationship of a son to a father is a primary vehicle for transmitting faith and knowledge of God, as seen when David instructs his son Solomon to "know thou the God of thy father" 1 Chronicles 28:9.
- Covenant Identity: The collective term "sons" is used to define Israel's identity in relation to God, such as in the declaration, "ye sons of Jacob are not consumed" Malachi 3:6.
- Messianic Prophecy: The title "son" is central to messianic hope, most notably in the prophecy that "unto us a son is given," who will be called "The everlasting Father" Isaiah 9:6.
In summary, H8091 Shâmâʻ is a name that appears in a single, specific genealogical reference. While the individual himself remains obscure, his mention places him within an intricate network of family and location that is characteristic of biblical record-keeping. The context of his name, particularly his status as a "son" (bên), connects his brief appearance to the profound themes of lineage, covenant, and faith that span the scriptures.
TRV