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שְׁבוּאֵל (she.vu.el)

she.vu.el

Shebuel

H7619 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 5 verses

N:N-M-P

Quick Reference

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

Word Overview

The name Shebuel, meaning “captive of God,” appears in the genealogies of Chronicles to identify two distinct Levites. The first is a son of Gershom and grandson of Moses, mentioned in 1 Chronicles 23:16 as part of the priestly organization established by David. This placement highlights the continuity of leadership from the wilderness generation into the monarchy.

A second individual with the same name is listed among the musicians, specifically as one of the fourteen sons of Heman in 1 Chronicles 25:4. The repetition of this personal name across different branches of the Levitical family suggests it was a recognized title within the tribe, possibly reflecting a theological emphasis on belonging to God rather than mere human ownership.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Shebuel means “captive of God.” In the Old Testament, this title appears in the records of Levitical service. It marks individuals who held significant roles in organizing worship and managing resources for the temple. These men were not merely officials; they were part of a lineage that connected the wilderness years to the established monarchy.

For believers today, this name offers a quiet reminder of belonging. To be a “captive” of God is to acknowledge that our lives are held by Him. It suggests a deep loyalty and a life set apart for His purposes. Whether in leadership or in supporting roles, these servants showed that faithful service matters across generations.

This word invites us to consider where we place our ultimate allegiance. When we recognize God’s ownership over our time and talents, our work gains eternal weight. It is a call to serve with the same dedication found in those ancient records, trusting that our efforts contribute to something lasting beyond our own lives.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Shubael3×
  • Shebuel2×
  • and/ Shebuel1×

Forms in the text

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

  • שֽׁוּבָאֵ֔ל2×
  • שׁוּבָאֵ֖ל1×
  • שְׁבוּאֵ֨ל1×
  • שְׁבוּאֵ֥ל1×
  • וּ/שְׁבֻאֵל֙1×

Key Verses

  • I Chronicles 23:16
    The sons of Gershom: Shebuel the chief.

    This verse identifies Shebuel as the chief among Gershom's sons, highlighting his leadership role in David's reorganization of priestly duties.

  • I Chronicles 25:4
    Of Heman, the sons of Heman: Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shebuel, Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, Romamti-Ezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, and Mahazioth.

    Here Shebuel is listed among Heman's sons, showing his specific assignment in the musical ministry that accompanied temple worship.

  • I Chronicles 26:24
    Shebuel the son of Gershom, the son of Moses, was ruler over the treasuries.

    This occurrence describes Shebuel as ruler over the treasuries, emphasizing his responsibility for managing the physical resources of the house of God.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Shebuel mean?

Shebuel is a Hebrew name that translates to “captive of God.” It combines the root for capture or seizure with the word for God, indicating someone who belongs wholly to the Lord.

Who was Shebuel in the Bible?

Shebuel appears as a Levite in the book of Chronicles. One instance identifies him as a grandson of Moses and a leader among the Gershonites, while another lists him as a musician serving under Heman.

Why is Shebuel mentioned multiple times?

The name appears in different contexts to show the breadth of Levitical service. It highlights both administrative leadership and musical worship, demonstrating that various gifts were used to support temple operations.

Every Occurrence (5 verses across 1 books)

I Chronicles 5 verses
I Chronicles 23:16

The sons of Gershom: Shebuel the chief.

I Chronicles 24:20

Of the rest of the sons of Levi: of the sons of Amram, Shubael; of the sons of Shubael, Jehdeiah.

I Chronicles 25:4

Of Heman, the sons of Heman: Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shebuel, Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti,…

I Chronicles 25:20

for the thirteenth, Shubael, his sons and his brothers, twelve;

I Chronicles 26:24

Shebuel the son of Gershom, the son of Moses, was ruler over the treasuries.