Shema'ah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin. The name Shema'ah is derived from the Hebrew root "shama," meaning "to hear" or "to listen," which is a common theme in biblical names, often reflecting a characteristic or a divine interaction.

Biblical References:

Shema'ah is referenced in 1 Chronicles 12:3, where he is listed among the mighty warriors who joined David at Ziklag. The passage reads: "Ahiezer their chief, and Joash, the sons of Shema'ah the Gibeathite; Jeziel and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth; Beracah, Jehu the Anathothite" . This context places Shema'ah within the narrative of David's rise to power, highlighting the support he received from various tribes, including Benjamin.

Tribal Affiliation:

Shema'ah is identified as a Gibeathite, indicating his association with Gibeah, a town within the territory of Benjamin. The tribe of Benjamin holds a significant place in Israel's history, being the tribe of King Saul, Israel's first king, and later providing strong support to David, as seen in the account of Shema'ah's sons.

Role and Significance:

The mention of Shema'ah in the context of David's supporters underscores the importance of loyalty and valor during the tumultuous period of David's ascent to the throne. The warriors from Benjamin, including the descendants of Shema'ah, played a crucial role in consolidating David's rule and establishing the united monarchy of Israel.

Genealogical Context:

The genealogical records in 1 Chronicles serve to preserve the heritage and lineage of Israel's tribes, emphasizing the continuity of God's covenant with His people. Shema'ah's inclusion in these records reflects the chronicler's intent to document the faithful and valiant individuals who contributed to Israel's history.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the account of Shema'ah and his descendants illustrates the theme of divine providence and the fulfillment of God's promises through the support of key figures in Israel's history. The loyalty of the Benjaminites to David can be seen as part of God's plan to establish a king after His own heart, as described in 1 Samuel 13:14.

In summary, Shema'ah, though a relatively minor figure in the biblical narrative, represents the broader themes of loyalty, divine providence, and the fulfillment of God's purposes through the tribes of Israel. His mention in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles highlights the interconnectedness of Israel's history and the pivotal role of its people in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.Shema'ah (1 Occurrence)

1 Chronicles 12:3
The chief was Ahiezer, then Joash, the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite; and Jeziel, and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth; and Beracah, and Jehu the Anathothite;
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Shema'ah (1 Occurrence)
Shema'ah. Shemaah, Shema'ah. Shemaiah . Multi-Version Concordance
Shema'ah (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 12:3 The chief was Ahiezer ...
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Shemaah (1 Occurrence)
... she-ma'-a, shem'-aa (ha-shema`-ah; Codex Vaticanus Ama, Codex Alexandrinus Samaa,
Lucian, Asma): A Benjamite, who was the father, according to the Massoretic ...
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Shemaiah (40 Occurrences)

/s/shemaiah.htm - 29k

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