### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H8094}}` (Shᵉmâʻâh) is a proper noun, specifically a masculine personal name. Its base definition states that it is a variant or equivalent of `{{H8093}}` (Shim'ah). Both forms derive from the verbal root `{{H8085}}` (sham'a), which carries the primary meaning "to hear," "to listen," and by extension, "to obey" or "to understand." Therefore, the name *Shᵉmâʻâh* inherently signifies "a hearing," "a report," or "fame." When applied to an individual, it suggests one who is heard, one who listens, or one whose reputation precedes them. The nominal form often emphasizes the *act* or *result* of hearing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name *Shᵉmâʻâh* (`{{H8094}}`) appears once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 12:3]] - "The chief was Ahiezer, then Joash, the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite; and Jeziel and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth; and Beracah and Jehu, the Anathothite."
In this context, Shemaah is identified as a Gibeathite and the father of two of David's mighty men, Ahiezer and Joash. These individuals are listed among those "mighty men, helpers in the war" who came to David at Ziklag while he was still restricted from the presence of Saul ([[1 Chronicles 12:1]]). Their joining David during this period of distress and transition highlights their loyalty, courage, and discernment. The mention of their tribal affiliation (Benjamin, as Gibeathites were from Benjamin's territory) is significant, as Benjamin was Saul's tribe, indicating a shift in allegiance from the reigning monarch to David, the anointed king. The name *Shᵉmâʻâh* itself, meaning "a hearing" or "report," might subtly allude to the reputation of this family or their responsiveness to David's cause.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for `{{H8094}}` (Shᵉmâʻâh) is its root, `{{H8085}}` (sham'a), "to hear." This root is foundational in biblical Hebrew and gives rise to a rich vocabulary related to auditory perception, attention, understanding, and obedience.
* **Direct Variant:** `{{H8093}}` (Shim'ah) - Another proper name, a sister or variant form of *Shᵉmâʻâh*, with the same core meaning.
* **Common Proper Nouns from the Root:**
* `{{H8092}}` (Shimei) - A very common name, often meaning "my hearing" or "renowned."
* `{{H8095}}` (Shim'on) - Simeon, meaning "hearing" or "one who hears."
* `{{H8096}}` (Shim'ath) - Shimath, meaning "hearing."
* Other names incorporating the root, such as Ishmael (God hears), highlight the divine attribute of hearing prayer.
* **Theological Concepts:** The concept of "hearing" in the Bible extends far beyond mere auditory perception. It encompasses attentive listening, understanding, and, critically, obedience. The command "Shema Yisrael" ("Hear, O Israel," [[Deuteronomy 6:4]]) is central to Israelite faith, underscoring that true hearing of God's commands leads to faithful action and covenant loyalty. The root `{{H8085}}` is thus pivotal to understanding the relationship between God and humanity.
### Theological Significance
As a proper name, the theological significance of *Shᵉmâʻâh* (`{{H8094}}`) is primarily derived from its etymological roots and the broader biblical emphasis on "hearing."
1. **Meaningful Names:** In ancient Israel, names were often prophetic or descriptive, reflecting a person's character, destiny, or the circumstances of their birth. *Shᵉmâʻâh*, meaning "a hearing" or "report/fame," suggests a person associated with being heard or having a notable reputation. In the context of [[1 Chronicles 12:3]], this could imply that Shemaah and his sons were "heard" of as valiant men or that they "heard" and responded to the call of David.
2. **Theological Weight of "Hearing":** The root `{{H8085}}` (sham'a) is one of the most theologically significant verbs in the Hebrew Bible. It describes God's act of hearing the cries of His people ([[Exodus 2:24]], [[Psalm 18:6]]) and, conversely, humanity's responsibility to hear and obey God's voice ([[Deuteronomy 6:4]], [[Jeremiah 7:23]]). While *Shᵉmâʻâh* refers to a specific individual and not directly to a divine attribute or command, its very etymology connects it to this profound biblical concept of receptive listening and responsive action, which are hallmarks of faith. The family's decision to join David, despite the risks, can be seen as an act of "hearing" the true direction of God's anointing.
### Summary
`{{H8094}}` (Shᵉmâʻâh) is a Hebrew proper noun, a masculine name meaning "a hearing," "a report," or "fame," directly related to `{{H8093}}` (Shim'ah) and stemming from the root `{{H8085}}` (sham'a), "to hear" or "to obey." It appears once in the biblical text, identifying the father of two of David's loyal mighty men from the tribe of Benjamin who joined him at Ziklag ([[1 Chronicles 12:3]]). The name, though referring to a specific individual, resonates with the profound biblical theme of "hearing" – encompassing attentive listening, understanding, and faithful obedience to divine will, a concept central to Israelite covenant theology.
TRV