שָׁגֵה (sha.geh)
sha.geh
Shagee
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name shāgêh appears in the biblical record as a personal designation for a man living during the era of the United Monarchy. It is most prominently associated with the father of Jonathan, who was one of King David’s elite warriors known as the "mighty men." The sources identify this individual as appearing first in 2 Samuel 23:33 and again in 1 Chronicles 11:34, where he is listed among the distinguished defenders of the kingdom.
Linguistically, the name derives from a root meaning "to err" or "to go astray," which gives it the translation "erring." This etymology presents an interesting contrast to his social standing; despite a name suggesting deviation or mistake, he was part of the loyal military elite surrounding David. The texts also note that this figure may be another name for Shammah (shammâh), linking him to other notable heroes of the period, such as the father of Hannathon the Hararite.
With only one verse occurrence in Chronicles where the specific form shāgêh is used, the word serves primarily as a historical marker rather than a theological term. Its presence highlights the diverse backgrounds within David’s inner circle, preserving the memory of individuals whose names might otherwise have been lost to history.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Shagee carries a meaning that might initially seem at odds with his role as one of King David’s mighty men. Derived from a root meaning to err or go astray, it stands in quiet contrast to the steadfast loyalty he demonstrated on the battlefield. This juxtaposition reminds us that human identity is not defined by etymology alone, but by faithfulness and action.
In 1 Chronicles 11:34, he is remembered simply as Jonathan, son of Shagee the Hararite. His inclusion in this list preserves the memory of a man who served with distinction despite a name that suggested wandering. It offers a gentle encouragement that our past mistakes or difficult labels do not dictate our future service or God’s use of us.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Shageh1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- שָׁגֵ֖ה1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 11:34
the sons of Hashem the Gizonite, Jonathan the son of Shagee the Hararite,
This verse records the specific occurrence of the name Shagee as the father of Jonathan, highlighting his place among David's elite warriors.