שׁוּנִי

Shuni, an Israelite

Definition

Shuni is the name of an Israelite, specifically a son of Gad and grandson of Jacob (Genesis 46:16). As a proper name, it refers to an individual within the genealogy of the tribe of Gad. The name also designates the clan descended from him, known as the Shunites, who were counted in the census of the Israelites in the wilderness (Numbers 26:15). There are no other major senses or differing meanings for this word in the biblical text.

Biblical Usage

The word שׁוּנִי (Shûwnîy) is used exclusively as a proper noun in genealogical and census contexts within the Pentateuch. It appears only twice: first in the list of Jacob's family who went to Egypt (Genesis 46:16), and second in the census of the Gadites taken in the plains of Moab (Numbers 26:15). Its usage is strictly for identifying a person and his tribal clan.

Etymology

The name Shuni is derived from an unused Hebrew root שׁוּן (shûn) meaning 'to rest' or 'to be quiet.' It is related to the idea of tranquility. As a personal name, it likely carried a positive connotation of peace or settledness for the individual or family.

Semantic Range

In ancient Israelite culture, personal names often held significant meaning, reflecting character, circumstances, or parental hopes. The name Shuni, meaning 'quiet' or 'restful,' may have expressed a desire for peace or stability for the child. Its preservation in tribal records underscores the importance of genealogy and tribal identity for inheritance, land rights, and the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs.

גָּדִי (Gādîy, H1425) — Refers to a member of the tribe of Gad, the broader tribal group to which Shuni belonged.

Word Details

Scripture References