שְׁמִידָעִי

a Shemidaite (collectively) or descendants of Shemida

Definition

The Hebrew word שְׁמִידָעִי (Shᵉmîydâʻîy) is a gentilic noun meaning 'a Shemidaite.' It refers collectively to the descendants or clan of Shemida, who was a son of Gilead and a grandson of Manasseh (Numbers 26:32). As a patronymic, it identifies a specific family group within the tribe of Manasseh. Its sole biblical occurrence is in the context of a census, where it functions to list this clan among the subdivisions of Israel that would receive an inheritance in the Promised Land.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Numbers 26:32. It appears in the context of the second wilderness census, specifically within the genealogy of the tribe of Manasseh. The usage is purely genealogical and administrative, serving to identify a clan for the purpose of land allocation. There are no other contextual uses or patterns in other books.

Etymology

The word is derived patronymically from the proper masculine name שְׁמִידָע (Shᵉmîydâʻ, Strong's H8061), meaning 'name of knowing' or 'fame of knowing.' The suffix -ִי (-îy) is a standard Hebrew gentilic ending, indicating 'belonging to' or 'descended from.' Thus, שְׁמִידָעִי literally means 'of/belonging to Shemida.'

Semantic Range

In its original setting, this name identifies a specific kinship group (a 'father’s house') within the tribal structure of ancient Israel. The recording of such clans in Numbers 26 was crucial for the equitable distribution of the land of Canaan by lot, as commanded by God (Numbers 26:52-56). Understanding this term highlights the importance of genealogy, tribal identity, and God's faithfulness in fulfilling the patriarchal promises of land to each family unit.

מִשְׁפָּחָה (mishpāchâ, H4940) — A broader term for a family, clan, or household, whereas שְׁמִידָעִי specifies one particular clan.

Word Details

Scripture References