### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shimʻâʼ**, represented by `{{H8092}}`, is a proper name used for several Israelites. It appears **6 times** in **6 unique verses**. The name is rendered in English as Shimea, Shimei, and Shamma. Its primary function is to identify specific individuals within biblical genealogies and historical accounts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8092}}` identifies at least four distinct individuals, primarily within genealogies. It is used to name one of the sons **born** `{{H3205}}` to David in Jerusalem [[1 Chronicles 3:5]]. The name, rendered as Shimma, also identifies the third **son** `{{H1121}}` of Jesse, making him a **brother** `{{H251}}` of David [[1 Chronicles 2:13]]. This same Shimea, David's **brother** `{{H251}}`, is mentioned as the father of Jonathan, who **slew** `{{H5221}}` a giant that **defied** `{{H2778}}` Israel ([[2 Samuel 21:21]], [[1 Chronicles 20:7]]). The name also appears in Levitical lineages, identifying a **son** `{{H1121}}` in the line of Haggiah [[1 Chronicles 6:30]] and the grandfather of Asaph [[1 Chronicles 6:39]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which the name `{{H8092}}` appears:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This term means "a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense." It is essential for establishing the lineages involving Shimea, whether as the **son** of Jesse [[1 Chronicles 2:13]] or the father of Jonathan [[2 Samuel 21:21]]. The concept of sonship is crucial for generational teaching and continuity [[Deuteronomy 4:9]].
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch** (brother): Defined as "a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity...)", this word establishes Shimea's kinship with David [[1 Chronicles 20:7]]. This relationship of **brother** is often used to call for unity and mutual defense [[Nehemiah 4:14]].
* `{{H2778}}` **châraph** (defy): This root word means to "defame... defy, reproach, upbraid." It describes the challenge against Israel that prompted the heroic act of Shimea's son, Jonathan [[2 Samuel 21:21]]. This act of defiance is seen as a reproach against God himself [[1 Samuel 17:45]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H8092}}` is a personal name, its usage highlights several important biblical themes:
* **Genealogical Integrity:** The appearances of Shimea in Chronicles are critical for documenting the lineage of both King David and the Levites ([[1 Chronicles 3:5]], [[1 Chronicles 6:39]]). These records underscore the importance of heritage and God's covenantal faithfulness through specific family lines.
* **Familial Identity:** Shimea is consistently identified by his relationships as a **son** `{{H1121}}`, **brother** `{{H251}}`, or father. This emphasizes the biblical worldview where individual identity is deeply connected to family and clan, particularly within the lineage of Jesse [[1 Chronicles 2:13]].
* **Defending God's Honor:** The account of Jonathan, son of Shimea, who **slew** `{{H5221}}` the giant who **defied** `{{H2778}}` Israel, serves as an example of righteous action [[2 Samuel 21:21]]. It illustrates the principle of standing against those who reproach or blaspheme God and His people [[1 Samuel 17:45]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8092}}` **Shimʻâʼ** is a name used to identify several individuals within the Old Testament, rather than representing an abstract concept. It appears in key genealogies, establishing the family lines of David and the Levites. Through its association with figures like David as a **brother** `{{H251}}` and Jonathan as a father, the name is embedded in narratives that highlight the importance of lineage, family roles, and the courage to act when Israel is **defied** `{{H2778}}`.
TRV