The Hebrew word Shâphâm, represented by H8223, is the proper name of an Israelite. The base definition is given as Shapham. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible, making its sole mention highly specific.
In the biblical narrative, H8223 is used to identify a specific individual within a genealogical listing. The single occurrence in 1 Chronicles 5:12 places him in a position of rank, stating, "Joel the chief, and Shapham the next, and Jaanai, and Shaphat in Bashan." This reference establishes Shapham's identity and his secondary position in a specified group.
Several related words from its only context help clarify the setting:
- H3100 Yôwʼêl (Joel): Defined as "Jehovah (is his) God; Joel, the name of twelve Israelites." He is listed as "the chief" directly before Shapham, establishing a hierarchy 1 Chronicles 5:12. He is also identified as the father of Heman, a singer 1 Chronicles 6:33.
- H4932 mishneh (next): This word means "a second (in order, rank, age, quality or location)." It is the term used to describe Shapham's position relative to Joel 1 Chronicles 5:12. It can also mean "double," as when God promises to "render double unto thee" Zechariah 9:12.
- H7218 rôʼsh (chief): Meaning "the head... chief(-est place, man, things)," this term defines Joel's status as the leader of the group that includes Shapham 1 Chronicles 5:12. It is also used to signify God being "exalted as head above all" 1 Chronicles 29:11.
The significance of H8223 is rooted in its contribution to the biblical record of lineage and social structure.
- Genealogical Identity: Shapham's inclusion in the chronicles, though brief, is part of the vital task of preserving the ancestral records and identity of the Israelite tribes.
- Defined Order: The text explicitly notes his rank as "the next," which demonstrates a clear and recognized hierarchy within his community. His role is defined in relation to the "chief," Joel.
- Individual Recognition: By being named alongside figures like Joel and Shaphat, Shapham's individual personhood is affirmed as a part of the historical and communal record of Israel.
In summary, H8223 is not a word with broad theological meaning but is instead the name of a specific Israelite. Its importance lies in its singular appearance, which contributes to the detailed genealogical and structural accounts in the book of Chronicles. The mention of Shapham illustrates the Bible's precision in recording not just major leaders but also the individuals who constituted the ordered communities of ancient Israel.
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