שִׁמְאָה

Shimah, an Israelite

Definition

Shimʼâh is a proper noun referring to a specific individual in the Old Testament. He is identified as a Benjamite, a son of Mikloth, and a resident of Jerusalem according to 1 Chronicles 8:32. The name appears only in this genealogical list, which traces the lineage of King Saul. As a personal name, it carries no other semantic meaning beyond identifying this particular Israelite figure within the tribal and familial structure of Benjamin.

Biblical Usage

The word is used exactly once in the Old Testament, in 1 Chronicles 8:32. Its usage is strictly genealogical, appearing within a list detailing the descendants and relatives of King Saul from the tribe of Benjamin. There are no other contexts or patterns of usage, as it functions solely as the name of this one individual.

Etymology

The name Shimʼâh (שִׁמְאָה) is likely a variant or scribal alteration of the more common Hebrew name Shimʿâh (שִׁמְעָה, H8093), which means 'a hearing' or 'report,' derived from the root שָׁמַע (shamaʿ, H8085), meaning 'to hear.' This connection is noted in the existing etymology. It is also compared to Shimeam (שִׁמְאָם, H8043), another Benjamite name in the same genealogy (1 Chronicles 9:38).

Semantic Range

In ancient Israelite culture, names were often significant and carried meaning, frequently relating to God's character or circumstances of birth. While the precise meaning of Shimʼâh is uncertain due to its likely status as a variant, its placement in a royal genealogy underscores the importance of familial and tribal lineage in establishing identity, heritage, and claims to leadership within the community.

Shimʿâh (H8093) — The more standard form of the name, meaning 'a hearing.' Shimeam (H8043) — Another Benjamite name in the same genealogical context, possibly a variant.

Word Details

Scripture References