Etymology and Name Variations:
Shuham, also referred to as Hushim, is a biblical figure whose name appears in the genealogical records of the tribes of Israel. The name "Shuham" is found in the Book of Numbers, while "Hushim" is used in the Book of Genesis. The variation in names is not uncommon in biblical texts, reflecting transliteration differences or textual traditions.

Biblical References:
Shuham is mentioned in the context of the descendants of Benjamin and Dan, two of the twelve tribes of Israel. In Genesis 46:23, the Berean Standard Bible states: "The sons of Dan: Hushim." This passage lists Hushim as a son of Dan, one of the sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. The tribe of Dan is one of the twelve tribes that formed the nation of Israel.

In Numbers 26:42, the BSB records: "These are the descendants of Dan by their clans: The Shuhamite clan from Shuham. These were the clans of Dan, according to their clans." Here, Shuham is identified as the progenitor of the Shuhamite clan within the tribe of Dan. This passage is part of a larger census taken by Moses and Eleazar, the priest, as the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land.

Tribal Significance:
The tribe of Dan, to which Shuham belongs, holds a unique place in the history of Israel. Although Dan was one of the smaller tribes, it played a significant role in the settlement of the Promised Land. The tribe was allocated territory in the northern part of Israel, near the Mediterranean coast. However, due to pressure from neighboring peoples, the Danites eventually migrated northward, as described in the Book of Judges.

The Shuhamites, as descendants of Shuham, would have been part of this tribal movement and settlement. The genealogical records in Numbers highlight the importance of family and clan identity within the Israelite community, emphasizing the continuity of God's covenant with the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Theological Implications:
From a theological perspective, the mention of Shuham and his descendants underscores the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs. Each tribe and clan, including the Shuhamites, played a role in the unfolding narrative of God's chosen people. The preservation of these genealogies in Scripture serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and the enduring legacy of the tribes of Israel.

Historical Context:
The historical context of Shuham's mention in the biblical narrative is during the period of the Israelites' wilderness wanderings and their subsequent conquest of Canaan. The census recorded in Numbers 26 was conducted as the Israelites prepared to enter the land promised to their forefathers. This period was marked by significant challenges and divine interventions, shaping the identity and destiny of the Israelite nation.

Conclusion:
While Shuham, or Hushim, may not be a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the genealogical records highlights the importance of every individual and family in the tapestry of Israel's history. The Shuhamites, as part of the tribe of Dan, contributed to the fulfillment of God's covenantal promises and the establishment of Israel in the Promised Land.Genesis 46:23
And the sons of Dan; Hushim.
Nave's Topical Index

Chapter xlvi
... Jacob is very appropriately called "Israel" as he starts out; for ... Variant forms are:
for "Hushim" "Shuham"; for "Jahzeel" "Jahziel"; for "Shillem" "Shallum.". ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlvi.htm

Who was Dan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus