### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shaʻaph**, represented by `{{H8174}}`, is a personal name meaning **fluctuation**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible and is used to identify two Israelites. Its usage is confined to genealogical records.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8174}}` serves to establish lineage within the book of 1 Chronicles. First, Shaaph is listed as one of the **sons** of Jahdai, alongside his brothers Regem, Jotham, Geshan, Pelet, and Ephah [[1 Chronicles 2:47]]. In a separate context, he is identified as the **father** of Madmannah, a place in Palestine [[1 Chronicles 2:49]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for Shaaph's identity and relationships:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word establishes Shaaph's direct genealogical link as one of the **sons** of Jahdai [[1 Chronicles 2:47]]. The term is fundamental in scripture for defining family lines and inheritance.
* `{{H4089}}` **Madmannâh** (Madmannah): This is the name of a place in Palestine for which Shaaph is named the **father** [[1 Chronicles 2:49]], suggesting he was its founder or a key ancestor.
* `{{H3056}}` **Yehday** (Jahdai): Identified as an Israelite, he is named as the father of Shaaph and his brothers, fixing Shaaph's position within that specific family line [[1 Chronicles 2:47]].
* `{{H1}}` **ʼâb** (father): This term is used to describe Shaaph's role as the progenitor of the inhabitants of Madmannah [[1 Chronicles 2:49]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H8174}}` is rooted entirely in its genealogical function. It serves to document specific ancestral connections within Israel's history.
* **Genealogical Record:** Shaaph is named as a **son** of Jahdai, preserving a specific branch of an Israelite family tree [[1 Chronicles 2:47]].
* **Progenitor of a Place:** He is identified as the **father** of Madmannah, linking a person to the settlement of a specific location [[1 Chronicles 2:49]].
* **Connection to Caleb's Line:** The verse naming him as the father of Madmannah also mentions **Caleb** and his daughter **Achsah**, placing Shaaph within the broader context of the lineage of Judah [[1 Chronicles 2:49]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8174}}` is a proper name, **Shaʻaph**, whose importance lies in its role within biblical genealogies. Appearing only in 1 Chronicles, the name functions as a marker of lineage, identifying Shaaph as both a son of Jahdai and the ancestral father of the inhabitants of Madmannah. His mention is crucial for preserving the detailed family and regional records of ancient Israel.
TRV