Topical Encyclopedia Shammah, also known as Shimea or Shimeah in some biblical passages, is a lesser-known figure in the Old Testament, recognized primarily as one of the brothers of King David. He is the third son of Jesse, the Bethlehemite, and is mentioned in several genealogical and narrative contexts within the Scriptures.Family and Genealogy Shammah is listed among the sons of Jesse in 1 Samuel 16:9, where the prophet Samuel is sent by God to anoint the next king of Israel from among Jesse's sons. The passage states, "Then Jesse had Shammah pass by, but Samuel said, 'Nor has the LORD chosen this one.'" This indicates that Shammah, like his brothers, was initially considered as a potential candidate for kingship before David was chosen. In 1 Chronicles 2:13, Shammah is referred to as Shimea: "Jesse was the father of Eliab his firstborn; Abinadab was second, Shimea third." This variation in name is not uncommon in ancient texts and reflects the transliteration differences over time. Role and Significance While Shammah does not play a prominent role in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of his family lineage. As a brother of David, Shammah is part of the family through which God would establish the Davidic line, leading ultimately to the birth of Jesus Christ, as outlined in the genealogies of the New Testament (Matthew 1:6). Shammah's presence at significant family events, such as the anointing of David, highlights the communal and familial aspects of God's unfolding plan for Israel. His mention in the context of David's anointing serves to emphasize the divine selection of David, despite the presence of older and potentially more outwardly impressive siblings. Military Context In 1 Samuel 17:13, Shammah is mentioned in the context of the Israelite army facing the Philistines: "The three oldest sons of Jesse had followed Saul into battle: The firstborn was Eliab, the second was Abinadab, and the third was Shammah." This passage indicates that Shammah, along with his brothers, was part of the military forces under King Saul, highlighting the martial responsibilities of Jesse's sons during this tumultuous period in Israel's history. Cultural and Theological Implications Shammah's role, though minor, contributes to the broader narrative of God's providence and the establishment of the Davidic monarchy. His presence in the biblical text serves as a reminder of the familial and tribal structures that played a crucial role in the history of Israel. The selection of David over his brothers, including Shammah, illustrates the biblical theme that God's choices often defy human expectations, focusing on the heart rather than outward appearances (1 Samuel 16:7). In summary, Shammah, as David's brother, is a figure who, while not central to the biblical narrative, is part of the foundational family through which God would bring about His redemptive purposes for Israel and ultimately for all humanity through Jesus Christ. His mention in the Scriptures serves to highlight the divine orchestration of history and the importance of family lineage in the unfolding of God's covenant promises. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 16:9Then Jesse made Shammah to pass by. And he said, Neither has the LORD chosen this. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 17:13 Library Jehovah-Shammah: a Glorious Name for the New Year A Table to the First Book, According to the Order and Subject of ... Olney Hymns Chapter xxxvi The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Chapter xlix Resources Who were the mighty men of David? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the different names of God, and what do they mean? | GotQuestions.org Who was Jesse in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Shammah: A Hararite, One of David's Mighty Men Shammah: David's Brother: Called Shimea Shammah: David's Brother: Called Shimeah Shammah: David's Brother: Called Shimma Shammah: One of David's Mighty Men Shammah: One of David's Mighty Men, Son of Agee Shammah: One of David's Mighty Men: Called Shammoth Related Terms |
    |