### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The lemma H8092, שִׁמְעָא (Shimʻâʼ), is a proper noun, a personal name. Its fundamental meaning is derived from the Hebrew root שָׁמַע (shamʻa), `{{H8085}}`, meaning "to hear," "to listen," or "to obey." Thus, the name itself signifies "hearing" or "one who hears." In many Hebrew names, this root also implies a theophoric element, suggesting "Yahweh has heard" or "God hears," reflecting a divine act of listening or responsiveness. The provided definition notes its relation to שִׁמְעָה (Shimʻah), `{{H8093}}`, which also carries the meaning of "hearing." As a proper noun, its semantic range is primarily defined by the individuals who bear the name rather than a broad conceptual spectrum.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name שִׁמְעָא (Shimʻâʼ) is attributed to four distinct individuals in the Old Testament, though variations in transliteration and spelling exist for one prominent figure:
1. **Shimea, Son of David:** This Shimea is one of David's sons born in Jerusalem, listed among his children by his wife Bathsheba. He is mentioned in [[2 Samuel 5:14]], [[1 Chronicles 3:5]], and [[1 Chronicles 14:4]]. His birth signifies the establishment of David's royal lineage in Jerusalem. In [[1 Chronicles 3:5]], he is also called Shammua (שַׁמּוּעַ, `{{H8052}}`), which similarly derives from the root "to hear."
2. **Shimea, a Merarite Levite:** He is identified as the son of Merari, a grandson of Levi, and an ancestor in the Levitical lineage. His name appears in the genealogical lists of the Levites in [[1 Chronicles 6:30]] (Hebrew 1 Chronicles 6:15). His inclusion underscores the continuity and divine ordering of the priestly and cultic service within Israel.
3. **Shimea, a Gershonite Levite:** Another Levite bearing this name, he is the son of Gershom (Gershon), also a grandson of Levi. He is listed in the Levitical genealogies in [[1 Chronicles 6:39]] (Hebrew 1 Chronicles 6:24). This further emphasizes the presence of the name within the consecrated lines dedicated to the service of the Tabernacle and Temple.
4. **Shimea, Brother of David:** This individual is one of Jesse's eight sons and David's elder brother. He is identified as Shammah (שַׁמָּה, `{{H8049}}`) in [[1 Samuel 16:9]] and [[1 Samuel 17:13]]. In [[1 Chronicles 2:13]], he is explicitly called Shimea (שִׁמְעָא, `{{H8092}}`), confirming the identity. He is also called Shimei (שִׁמְעִי, `{{H8096}}`) in [[2 Samuel 21:21]]. He was present when Samuel anointed David as king, and his son, Jonadab, plays a role in the narrative of Amnon and Tamar ([[2 Samuel 13:3]]). His presence in these key moments, particularly the anointing of David, links him to the divine selection and establishment of the Davidic dynasty.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root שָׁמַע (shamʻa), `{{H8085}}`, which forms the semantic core of שִׁמְעָא (Shimʻâʼ). This root is fundamental to biblical theology, encompassing not only the physical act of hearing but also attentive listening, understanding, and, crucially, obedience.
Other related names and concepts include:
* שִׁמְעָה (Shimʻah), `{{H8093}}`: The name from which H8092 is said to be derived, also meaning "hearing."
* שְׁמַעְיָה (Shemaʻyah), `{{H8098}}`: A common name meaning "Yah has heard."
* שְׁמוּאֵל (Shemuʼel), `{{H8050}}`: Samuel, whose name is often understood as "heard of God" or "name of God."
* The concept of the "Shema" (שְׁמַע, `{{H8085}}`): Found in [[Deuteronomy 6:4]], "Hear, O Israel," which encapsulates the call to listen and obey God's commands, forming a cornerstone of Israelite faith.
* The broader biblical theme of divine hearing (God hearing prayers, cries of the oppressed) and human hearing (humanity's responsibility to hear and respond to God's word).
### Theological Significance
The name שִׁמְעָא (Shimʻâʼ), rooted in "to hear," carries profound theological significance. In the biblical worldview, "hearing" is not merely an auditory function but a spiritual act of reception and response. To "hear" God's voice implies not only understanding His commands but also acting upon them in obedience. This is the essence of the covenant relationship between God and Israel.
The individuals bearing the name, though not all central figures, subtly reinforce this theological theme:
* God "hears" and chooses David, and Shimea, David's brother, is present at this divine selection.
* The Levites named Shimea serve in roles that inherently involve "hearing" God's law and mediating between God and the people, who themselves are called to "hear" God's instructions.
* Even David's son, Shimea, is part of a lineage established by divine promise, a promise that God "hears" and fulfills.
The name serves as a constant reminder of the active and reciprocal nature of the divine-human relationship: God hears the cries and prayers of His people, and His people are called to hear and obey His voice. This emphasis on responsive hearing is a central tenet of Old Testament faith, underscoring the importance of attentiveness to divine revelation and faithful adherence to covenant stipulations.
### Summary
שִׁמְעָא (Shimʻâʼ), `{{H8092}}`, is a Hebrew proper noun meaning "hearing" or "one who hears," derived from the root שָׁמַע (shamʻa), `{{H8085}}`. This name is borne by four distinct individuals in the Old Testament: a son of King David, two Levites (one Merarite and one Gershonite), and significantly, one of David's brothers, who is also known as Shammah and Shimei. While the individuals themselves are not always central to major narratives, the name's inherent meaning points to a foundational biblical concept: the vital importance of "hearing" God's voice. This hearing is understood not as passive reception but as active, obedient listening, which is a cornerstone of the covenant relationship between God and His people. The name thus serves as a subtle, yet potent, reminder of humanity's call to attentive and responsive faith.
TRV