Topical Encyclopedia The Shuhamites are a biblical group mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the tribes of Israel. They are descendants of Shuham, who is identified as a son of Dan, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. The Shuhamites are thus part of the tribe of Dan, one of the twelve tribes of Israel.Biblical References: The primary reference to the Shuhamites is found in the Book of Numbers, which details the census of the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. In Numbers 26:42, the Berean Standard Bible states: "These are the descendants of Dan by their clans: The Shuhamite clan from Shuham. These were the clans of Dan." This passage highlights the Shuhamites as a distinct clan within the tribe of Dan, emphasizing their role in the broader narrative of Israel's journey and settlement. Genealogical Context: The tribe of Dan, to which the Shuhamites belong, is one of the twelve tribes that descended from the sons of Jacob. Dan was the fifth son of Jacob and the first son of Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. The tribe of Dan is often associated with strength and judgment, as suggested by Jacob's blessing in Genesis 49:16-17, where he prophesies, "Dan shall provide justice for his people as one of the tribes of Israel." Historical and Cultural Significance: The Shuhamites, as part of the tribe of Dan, played a role in the settlement of the Promised Land. The tribe of Dan was initially allocated a portion of land in the southwestern part of Canaan, near the Philistine territory. However, due to pressure from neighboring peoples, the Danites, including the Shuhamites, later sought additional territory in the north, as described in the Book of Judges. The movement of the Danites, including the Shuhamites, to the northern region is recounted in Judges 18, where they capture the city of Laish and rename it Dan. This relocation reflects the dynamic and often challenging circumstances faced by the tribes of Israel as they established themselves in the land promised to them by God. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the Shuhamites, like other clans within the tribes of Israel, represent the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the multiplication of their descendants and the inheritance of the land of Canaan. The inclusion of the Shuhamites in the census and genealogical records underscores the importance of each clan and family in the unfolding of God's covenantal plan. The Shuhamites, as part of the tribe of Dan, also remind readers of the diverse and multifaceted nature of the people of Israel. Each tribe and clan contributed uniquely to the history and spiritual journey of the nation, reflecting the broader themes of unity and diversity within the body of God's chosen people. Conclusion: The Shuhamites, though mentioned briefly in the biblical text, are an integral part of the narrative of the Israelites. Their inclusion in the genealogical records serves as a testament to their role in the history of Israel and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people. Smith's Bible Dictionary The Shuhamites[SHUHAM] Strong's Hebrew 7749. Shuchami -- descendant of Shuham... descendant of Shuham. Transliteration: Shuchami Phonetic Spelling: (shoo-khaw-mee') Short Definition: Shuhamites. ... of Shuham NASB Word Usage Shuhamites (2). ... /hebrew/7749.htm - 6k Resources The: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics the Epistle of Paul To Philemon the First Epistle General Of John The Kingdom or Church of Christ the Second and Third Epistles Of John Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |