Shuham is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament as a descendant of Dan, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. Shuham is recognized as the progenitor of the Shuhamites, a clan within the tribe of Dan. His name appears in the genealogical records that detail the descendants of the tribes of Israel.

Biblical References:

1. Numbers 26:42 · In the census of the Israelites conducted in the wilderness, Shuham is mentioned as the son of Dan. The verse states: "These are the descendants of Dan by their clans: The Shuhamite clan from Shuham. These were the clans of Dan by their families."

2. Genesis 46:23 · In the list of those who went to Egypt with Jacob, the name of Dan's son is given as Hushim. The verse reads: "The sons of Dan: Hushim." This discrepancy in names between Genesis and Numbers has been a subject of discussion among biblical scholars. Some suggest that Hushim and Shuham may refer to the same individual, with variations in the name arising from transliteration or textual transmission over time.

Tribal Significance:

The tribe of Dan, to which Shuham belonged, was one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Dan was the fifth son of Jacob and the firstborn of Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. The tribe of Dan played a significant role in the history of Israel, known for its warriors and its later settlement in the northern part of the Promised Land.

Cultural and Historical Context:

The mention of Shuham in the census of Numbers highlights the importance of genealogical records in ancient Israelite society. These records were crucial for maintaining tribal identities and inheritance rights. The Shuhamites, as a clan within the tribe of Dan, would have had their own distinct identity and role within the larger tribal structure.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Shuham in the biblical genealogies underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to make their descendants numerous. Each clan and tribe, including the Shuhamites, contributed to the unfolding narrative of God's covenant with Israel.

Conclusion:

While Shuham is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his mention in the genealogical records serves as a testament to the detailed preservation of Israel's tribal history. The Shuhamites, as descendants of Dan, were part of the broader tapestry of the Israelite community, contributing to the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.Numbers 26:42
These are the sons of Dan after their families: of Shuham, the family of the Shuhamites. These are the families of Dan after their families.
Nave's Topical Index

Chapter xlvi
... But to Gera it ascribes one son: Ard. ... Dan Naphtali Hushim Jahzeel. ... 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

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