### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term שַׁעַלְבֹנִי (Shaʻalbônîy, `{{H8170}}`) is a gentilic noun, specifically a patrial derivative from the place name שַׁעַלְבִים (Shaʻalbîm, from the root שׁוּעָל, `{{H7776}}`, meaning "fox" or "jackal"). As such, its core meaning is "an inhabitant of Shaalbin" or "a Shaalbonite." The semantic range of this word is narrow, serving primarily to identify an individual's geographical origin. It carries no inherent moral, social, or theological connotation beyond this geographical link. Its function is purely descriptive, marking a person as belonging to or originating from the town of Shaalbin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term שַׁעַלְבֹנִי (Shaʻalbônîy, `{{H8170}}`) appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, both times in the context of listing David's mighty men:
* **[[2 Samuel 23:32]]**: "Eliahba the Shaalbonite..."
* **[[1 Chronicles 11:33]]**: "Eliahba the Shaalbonite..."
In both instances, the word refers to Eliahba, one of the elite warriors who served King David. These passages are parallel accounts of David's "thirty" (or "thirty-seven," depending on how they are counted) mighty men, a distinguished group known for their valor and loyalty. The inclusion of "the Shaalbonite" alongside his name serves to specify his hometown, distinguishing him from others and providing a precise biographical detail. While Shaalbin itself is not a prominent biblical city, its mention here, through the gentilic, underscores the diverse origins of David's fighting force, drawing individuals from various regions and backgrounds into his service. The context highlights the individual's identity within a collective of heroic figures, emphasizing their personal contribution to the kingdom.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the place name שַׁעַלְבִים (Shaʻalbîm), from which שַׁעַלְבֹנִי (Shaʻalbônîy, `{{H8170}}`) is derived. Shaalbin was a town in the tribal territory of Dan, initially failing to be conquered by the tribe ([[Judges 1:35]]). The name itself, likely meaning "place of foxes/jackals," hints at the natural environment of the region.
More broadly, this word belongs to a class of "gentilic" or "patrial" nouns in Hebrew, which are common throughout the biblical text. These words identify individuals by their place of origin (e.g., "Jebusite" from Jebus, "Hittite" from Heth, "Israelite" from Israel). This linguistic feature reflects the ancient world's emphasis on tribal and geographical identity. The concept of "David's mighty men" (גִּבֹּרִים, `{{H1368}}`) is also a crucial related concept, as it is within these lists that the Shaalbonite is mentioned. These lists showcase the loyalty and prowess of individuals who rallied around David, forming the core of his military strength and, by extension, contributing to the establishment of the Davidic dynasty.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of שַׁעַלְבֹנִי (Shaʻalbônîy, `{{H8170}}`) is primarily indirect, yet profound. While the word itself is a simple geographical descriptor, its inclusion in the biblical narrative speaks to several important theological themes:
1. **Divine Providence in Human Detail**: The meticulous recording of even a warrior's hometown, like Eliahba the Shaalbonite, reflects the Bible's commitment to historical accuracy and the belief that God's hand is at work in the specific, tangible details of human history. Every individual, no matter how seemingly minor, plays a part in God's overarching plan.
2. **Inclusivity in God's Kingdom**: David's mighty men represented a diverse group, drawn from various regions and backgrounds. The presence of a "Shaalbonite" alongside others implies that God's purposes can be served by individuals from all walks of life and places. It foreshadows the broader inclusivity of God's people, transcending narrow geographical or tribal boundaries, culminating in the New Testament's vision of a kingdom comprised of "every tribe and language and people and nation" ([[Revelation 5:9]]).
3. **Identity Defined by Service, Not Just Origin**: While Eliahba is identified by his origin, his lasting legacy is tied to his service to David, a king chosen by God. This subtly shifts the focus from where one comes from to what one does in faithful service to God's anointed. His identity as a "Shaalbonite" is a historical fact, but his renown comes from his valor and loyalty within God's unfolding redemptive history.
### Summary
שַׁעַלְבֹנִי (Shaʻalbônîy, `{{H8170}}`) is a Hebrew gentilic noun meaning "a Shaalbonite" or "an inhabitant of Shaalbin." Its limited occurrences in the biblical text are found in the parallel accounts of David's mighty men, specifically identifying Eliahba as "the Shaalbonite" in [[2 Samuel 23:32]] and [[1 Chronicles 11:33]]. The word's significance is primarily historical and biographical, providing a specific geographical identifier for an individual. Theologically, its presence underscores the biblical narrative's detailed historical record, the diversity of individuals God uses in His plans, and the ultimate importance of one's faithful service over mere geographical origin within the grand tapestry of God's redemptive work.
TRV