אָגֵא

Age, an Israelite

Definition

Agee (אָגֵא) is a proper noun referring to an Israelite warrior mentioned in the Bible. He is identified as the father of Shammah, one of King David's mighty men known as the 'Thirty' (2 Samuel 23:11). The name itself appears to be of uncertain meaning, possibly derived from a root meaning 'to be strong' or 'to increase,' though this is not definitive. The single biblical occurrence solely serves to establish his lineage in the context of David's military elite.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in 2 Samuel 23:11. It functions exclusively as a personal name, identifying the father of the hero Shammah. The context is a list of David's most valiant warriors, placing Agee within the cultural and military history of ancient Israel.

Etymology

The etymology of אָגֵא (Agee) is uncertain. Scholars often link it by similarity to the name Agag (אֲגַג, H90), a title for Amalekite kings (e.g., Numbers 24:7, 1 Samuel 15:8). This potential connection might suggest a foreign or non-Israelite origin for the name, or it could simply be a coincidental phonetic resemblance. No clear Hebrew root is definitively established.

Semantic Range

As a personal name, 'Agee' reflects the naming practices of ancient Israel. Being the father of a celebrated warrior in David's army signifies a family of notable military valor and loyalty to the king. This context places the individual within the social structure of the early Israelite monarchy, where martial prowess was highly esteemed.

Agag (אֲגַג, H90) — A title for Amalekite kings, not a direct synonym but a phonetically similar proper name with a different referent and often negative connotations in biblical narrative.

Word Details

Scripture References