סִסְמַי (sis.may)

sis.may

Sismai

H5581 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

N:N-M-P

Language: Biblical Hebrew
Testament: Old Testament
Occurrences: 1 verses
Root: —
Part of speech: N:N-M-P

Word Overview

The name Sismai appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, recorded in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles 2:40. He is identified as a descendant of Sheshan within the line of Jerahmeel, belonging to the tribe of Judah during the period of the Divided Monarchy. Specifically, he is listed as the son of Eleasah and the father of Shallum.

Lexical sources suggest the name may mean "water crane" or "swallow," though this etymology remains speculative. As a proper noun in a genealogical list, the word functions primarily to preserve tribal lineage rather than to convey theological instruction. Its solitary occurrence highlights the meticulous preservation of family lines in Chronicles, connecting individuals like Sismai to the broader heritage of Judah.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Sismai appears only once in Scripture, tucked inside a long list of ancestors in 1 Chronicles 2:40. Genealogies can feel dry or distant, but they carry a quiet weight. Each name represents a real person who lived, loved, and passed on their heritage to the next generation.

God’s care extends beyond famous leaders and prophets. He preserves the names of ordinary people like Sismai, son of Eleasah and father of Shallum. This reminds us that every life matters in God’s story, even when we are not in the spotlight. Your place in His family is secure, regardless of how visible your name may be.

When you read these lists, consider the faithfulness required to keep a lineage alive through generations. It invites you to trust that God knows and remembers each of us by name. You are part of a larger story that He is writing, one where every detail counts.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

and/ Sismai1×
Sismai1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

סִֽסְמָ֔י1×
וְ/סִסְמַ֖י1×

Key Verses

I Chronicles 2:40
and Eleasah became the father of Sismai, and Sismai became the father of Shallum,

This verse records Sismai as the son of Eleasah and father of Shallum, anchoring his place in the tribal lineage of Judah.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Sismai in the Bible?

Sismai is a minor figure mentioned only once in 1 Chronicles 2:40. He is listed as the son of Eleasah and the father of Shallum, serving as a link in the genealogical record of the tribe of Judah.

What does the name Sismai mean?

Lexical sources suggest the name may relate to a 'water crane' or 'swallow,' but this etymology is speculative. As a proper noun in a genealogy, its primary function is identification rather than conveying a specific theological meaning.

Why is Sismai included in the Bible?

His inclusion highlights the biblical emphasis on preserving family lines and tribal heritage. It shows that God values the continuity of generations and remembers individuals who may not have prominent roles in the narrative.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

I Chronicles 1 verse

I Chronicles 2:40

and Eleasah became the father of Sismai, and Sismai became the father of Shallum,