Etymology and Meaning: The name Shemariah is of Hebrew origin, meaning "Jehovah has guarded" or "Yahweh has kept." This name reflects a common theme in Hebrew nomenclature, where names often signify divine protection or attributes of God.

Biblical References: Shemariah is a relatively obscure figure in the Bible, mentioned in the context of genealogies and lists of warriors. The primary reference to Shemariah is found in the Old Testament, specifically in the historical books that detail the reigns of the kings of Israel and Judah.

1. 1 Chronicles 12:5: Shemariah is listed among the mighty men who joined David at Ziklag. These men were warriors from the tribe of Benjamin, Saul's own tribe, who defected to support David during his time of need. The passage reads: "Ishmaiah the Gibeonite, a mighty man among the thirty and over the thirty; Jeremiah, Jahaziel, Johanan, Jozabad the Gederathite, Eluzai, Jerimoth, Bealiah, Shemariah, Shephatiah the Haruphite" . This inclusion highlights Shemariah's role as a valiant supporter of David, contributing to the establishment of his kingdom.

2. 2 Chronicles 11:19: Another mention of Shemariah is found in the genealogical records of the descendants of Rehoboam, the son of Solomon. Shemariah is noted as one of the sons of Rehoboam, born to his wife Mahalath. This reference situates Shemariah within the royal lineage of Judah, indicating his connection to the Davidic line.

Historical and Theological Context: The mention of Shemariah in the context of David's supporters at Ziklag underscores the theme of loyalty and divine providence in the establishment of David's kingship. The warriors who joined David were seen as instruments of God's plan, ensuring the transition of power from Saul to David, which was divinely ordained.

In the genealogical context, Shemariah's inclusion in the lineage of Rehoboam serves to emphasize the continuity of the Davidic line, which holds significant theological importance in the biblical narrative. The Davidic covenant, as outlined in 2 Samuel 7, promises the establishment of David's throne forever, a promise that finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Testament with the coming of Jesus Christ, a descendant of David.

Cultural and Religious Significance: Names like Shemariah, which incorporate the divine name, reflect the deep religious consciousness of the Israelites, who saw their identity and destiny as intertwined with their relationship to Yahweh. The presence of such names in the biblical text serves as a reminder of God's active role in the lives of His people, guiding and protecting them according to His covenant promises.

Conclusion: While Shemariah may not be a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, his mention in the context of David's mighty men and the royal lineage of Judah highlights the broader themes of divine protection, loyalty, and the fulfillment of God's promises through the Davidic line.Shemari'ah (4 Occurrences)

1 Chronicles 12:5
Eluzai, and Jerimoth, and Bealiah, and Shemariah, and Shephatiah the Hariphite;
(See RSV)

2 Chronicles 11:19
and she bore him sons: Jeush, and Shemariah, and Zaham.
(See RSV)

Ezra 10:32
Benjamin, Malluch, Shemariah.
(See RSV)

Ezra 10:41
Azarel, and Shelemiah, Shemariah;
(See RSV)

Shemari'ah (4 Occurrences)
Shemari'ah. Shemariah, Shemari'ah. Shemeber . Multi-Version Concordance
Shemari'ah (4 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 12:5 Eluzai, and ...
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Shemariah (5 Occurrences)

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Shemeber (1 Occurrence)

/s/shemeber.htm - 7k

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