### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Shᵉmaʻyâh**, represented by `{{H8098}}`, means **Jah has heard**. It is formed from the words for "hear" `{{H8085}}` and "Jah" (a form of God's name, `{{H3068}}`). This name appears **41 times** across **39 unique verses** and is held by at least twenty-five different Israelites, indicating its popularity and the significance of its meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Individuals named Shemaiah appear in various roles throughout the biblical narrative. One prominent figure is Shemaiah the **prophet** `{{H5030}}`, who delivered a message from the LORD `{{H3068}}` to King Rehoboam `{{H7346}}` of Judah `{{H3063}}`, declaring that because they had forsaken God, they were left in the hand of Shishak `{{H7895}}` [[2 Chronicles 12:5]]. In contrast, another Shemaiah, the Nehelamite `{{H5161}}`, is identified as a false prophet who caused the people to **trust** `{{H982}}` in a **lie** `{{H8267}}` [[Jeremiah 29:31]]. The name is also associated with a Levite **scribe** `{{H5608}}` who recorded the priestly divisions [[1 Chronicles 24:6]], a **keeper** `{{H8104}}` of the east gate `{{H8179}}` [[Nehemiah 3:29]], and numerous Levites and priests involved in the temple service and leadership ([[1 Chronicles 15:8]], [[Nehemiah 10:8]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the concept of hearing and God's interaction with His people:
* `{{H8085}}` **shâmaʻ** (to hear): This is the root verb of the name Shemaiah, meaning to **hear** intelligently, often with the implication of attention and obedience. It is foundational to understanding the name's meaning.
* `{{H476}}` **ʼĔlîyshâmâʻ** (God of hearing): This name, appearing alongside Shemaiah's associates ([[2 Chronicles 17:8]], [[Jeremiah 36:12]]), uses the same root for "hear" but pairs it with "God" (El), reinforcing the theme of divine attention.
* `{{H2148}}` **Zᵉkaryâh** (Jah has remembered): Found with Shemaiah in lists of chief men and priests ([[Ezra 8:16]], [[Nehemiah 12:35]]), this name shares a similar structure and reflects the parallel theme of God remembering His people.
* `{{H5662}}` **ʻÔbadyâh** (serving Jah): A name listed with Shemaiah in a Levitical genealogy [[1 Chronicles 9:16]], it highlights a relationship of service to the same God who hears.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8098}}` is centered on the character of God as one who is attentive to humanity.
* **Divine Communication:** The name is fitting for a true prophet like the one who advised Rehoboam. His very name declared his function: to speak what **Jah has heard** and commanded ([[2 Chronicles 12:5]], [[2 Chronicles 12:7]]).
* **Judgment on Falsehood:** The story of Shemaiah the Nehelamite shows the other side of God's hearing. The LORD "heard" his unauthorized prophecies and rebellion `{{H5627}}`, leading to a promise of punishment for him and his **seed** `{{H2233}}` [[Jeremiah 29:31-32]].
* **Hearing and Repentance:** God’s attentiveness is linked to mercy. When the leaders of Judah **humbled** `{{H3665}}` themselves after Shemaiah's prophecy, the LORD responded, stating He would not **destroy** `{{H7843}}` them completely [[2 Chronicles 12:7]].
* **A Name of Hope:** The name's use among many Levites, priests, and gatekeepers suggests it served as a constant reminder and expression of faith that God was present and attentive to the affairs of His people and their worship.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8098}}` is far more than a common name. It is a confession of faith, encapsulating the belief that **Jah has heard**. The lives of the various men named Shemaiah—from the faithful prophet to the rebellious one—demonstrate the profound consequences of this truth. The name serves as a recurring motif in scripture, reminding readers that God is not distant but actively listens, responding with messages of guidance, deliverance, and judgment.
TRV