### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H8091}}` (שָׁמָע, Shâmâʻ) functions as a proper noun, a personal name. Its core meaning is directly derived from the verbal root `{{H8085}}` (שָׁמַע, shamaʻ), which signifies "to hear," "to listen," and, crucially, "to obey." Thus, the name Shama inherently carries the meaning "obedient" or "he has heard." This etymological connection is vital, as ancient Hebrew names often encapsulated a hope, a prophecy, a characteristic, or a significant event, thereby imbuing the bearer with a particular identity or destiny. In this case, the name itself is a declaration of a desired or perceived quality: responsiveness and submission to a voice or command.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The proper noun `{{H8091}}` (Shama) appears in the Old Testament primarily in the genealogies and lists of prominent individuals. Its two main occurrences refer to distinct persons:
1. **[[1 Chronicles 2:28]]**: Here, Shama is identified as one of the sons of Onam, who was a son of Jerahmeel, a descendant of Judah. This genealogical context places Shama within the tribal lineage of Judah, indicating his heritage and familial ties. Beyond his lineage, no specific actions or narratives are attributed to this Shama, but his inclusion in the detailed tribal records underscores his existence as a legitimate member of the Jerahmeelite branch.
2. **[[1 Chronicles 11:44]]**: In this passage, Shama is listed among "David's mighty men" (גִּבֹּרִים, *gibborim*), specifically identified as Shama the Hararite. This context is highly significant, as David's mighty men were an elite group of warriors renowned for their valor, loyalty, and exceptional feats in battle. While the text does not detail Shama the Hararite's specific heroic deeds, his inclusion in this esteemed company implies he possessed qualities of strength, courage, and, by extension of his name's meaning, perhaps a profound obedience to David's command and to the divine will that guided David's kingship. His presence among these heroes suggests a life characterized by action and dedication.
These occurrences highlight the use of `{{H8091}}` as a personal identifier, linking individuals to their lineage and, in the case of David's mighty man, to their societal role and achievements.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word to `{{H8091}}` is its verbal root, `{{H8085}}` (שָׁמַע, shamaʻ). This verb is foundational to biblical theology, encompassing not merely the physical act of hearing but also the intellectual comprehension and, most importantly, the volitional act of obedience. The concept of "hearing and obeying" is central to the covenant relationship between God and Israel.
Other related names and concepts derived from `{{H8085}}` include:
* **Ishmael** (יִשְׁמָעֵאל, Yishmaʻe’l - `{{H3458}}`): "God hears," emphasizing divine attentiveness.
* **Shemaiah** (שְׁמַעְיָה, Shemaʻyah - `{{H8098}}`): "Yahweh has heard," highlighting God's responsive nature.
* **Shema** (שְׁמַע, Shema - `{{H8088}}`): A place name or other personal names, directly reflecting the root.
The theological concept of *Shema Israel* ("Hear, O Israel") from [[Deuteronomy 6:4]] encapsulates the profound demand for Israel to not only hear God's commands but to internalize and obey them fully. The name Shama, "obedient," stands as a personal embodiment of this core biblical imperative.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8091}}` lies not in any specific narrative about the individuals named Shama, but in the profound meaning of the name itself: "obedient." In the biblical worldview, obedience is not a mere compliance but a demonstration of faith, trust, and love towards God. It is the proper response to divine revelation and command.
The name Shama serves as a constant reminder of the paramount importance of "hearing and obeying" God's voice, which is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament. From Abraham's obedience in leaving his homeland to the Israelites' call to obey the Mosaic Law, faithfulness is inextricably linked to obedience. A person named Shama, therefore, carries a name that embodies a core virtue of the covenant relationship. For Shama the Hararite, his name might have reflected his exemplary obedience to his earthly king, David, which was itself often seen as a reflection of obedience to God's chosen leader. The very existence of such a name underscores the value placed on a responsive and submissive heart in the community of faith.
### Summary
`{{H8091}}` (שָׁמָע, Shâmâʻ) is a Hebrew proper noun, a personal name meaning "obedient" or "he has heard," directly derived from the verb `{{H8085}}` (שָׁמַע), "to hear, listen, obey." While the biblical texts do not provide extensive narratives for the individuals named Shama (a Jerahmeelite in [[1 Chronicles 2:28]] and one of David's mighty men in [[1 Chronicles 11:44]]), the name itself carries profound theological weight. It serves as a personal embodiment of the fundamental biblical principle of "hearing and obeying" God, a cornerstone of the covenant relationship and a primary expression of faith and devotion. The name Shama thus stands as a testament to the high value placed on responsiveness and submission to divine will within ancient Israelite society.
TRV