שַׁמְשְׁרַי

Shamsherai, an Israelite

Definition

Shamshᵉray is a proper noun referring to an Israelite man named Shamsherai. He is listed as a son of Jeroham and a chief of the tribe of Benjamin in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles 8:26. The name appears only in this context, identifying him as a notable figure within the tribal lineage. As a personal name, it does not carry multiple senses or meanings beyond this specific identification.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exactly once in the Old Testament, in 1 Chronicles 8:26. It functions solely as a personal name within a detailed genealogy of the tribe of Benjamin. The context is a list of chiefs and mighty warriors, placing Shamshᵉray among the recorded leaders of his clan. There are no other patterns of usage, as it is a unique identifier for this individual.

Etymology

The name Shamshᵉray (שַׁמְשְׁרַי) is derived from the Hebrew root שֶׁמֶשׁ (shemesh, H8121), meaning 'sun.' The suffix likely indicates a possessive or relational form, giving the name a meaning such as 'sun-like,' 'belonging to the sun,' or 'my sun.' It is part of a category of Hebrew names incorporating celestial imagery, similar to Samson (Shimshon).

Semantic Range

In ancient Israelite culture, names were often meaningful and descriptive. A name like Shamshᵉray, connected to the sun, may have conveyed positive attributes like radiance, strength, or glory, reflecting parental hopes or character. Its inclusion in a tribal genealogy underscores the importance of lineage and identity for the post-exilic community preserving these records in Chronicles.

שֶׁמֶשׁ (shemesh, H8121) — The root noun meaning 'sun,' from which the name is derived. שִׁמְשׁוֹן (Shimshon, H8123) — Samson, another name derived from 'shemesh,' meaning 'little sun' or 'sun-man.'

Word Details

Scripture References