שֹׁ֫הַם (sho.ham)
sho.ham
Shoham
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 Shoḥam identifies a specific individual within the lineage of Levi, recorded exclusively in 1 Chronicles 24:27. He appears as the son of Jaaziah and is listed among the brothers who served in the temple duties during the period of the divided monarchy. This genealogical record places him firmly within the Merarite clan, one of the three main families assigned to handle the structural components of the Tabernacle and later the Temple.
Etymologically, the name Shoḥam derives from the Hebrew word for "onyx," a precious stone often associated with the high priest’s breastplate. While the biblical text uses this name solely for this Levite official, its linguistic root connects him to the broader symbolism of sacred adornment and divine order. The repetition of such gemstone names in Israelite genealogies suggests a cultural practice of linking family identity to the holy artifacts used in worship.
Because Shoḥam is mentioned only once in Scripture, his personal story remains unknown. However, his inclusion in Chronicles highlights the importance of organized service within the Levitical priesthood. The text preserves his name not for individual deeds, but as part of the structured community that maintained Israel’s religious life. This single reference serves as a reminder of the many unnamed servants who supported the central worship of God.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Shoḥam appears in a single verse within the genealogies of 1 Chronicles. It identifies a son of Jaaziah from the clan of Merari, one of the three Levitical families responsible for the structural care of the Tabernacle and Temple. While the text offers no personal narrative about him, his listing preserves the memory of those who maintained the physical spaces where Israel worshipped.
Etymologically, Shoḥam links to the Hebrew word for onyx, a precious stone worn by the high priest. This connection suggests that even those serving in supporting roles were part of a sacred order adorned with divine significance. His inclusion reminds us that God values the structured, often unseen work that keeps worship communities functioning.
For your faith, this entry highlights the dignity of every role within the body of believers. Just as the Merarites handled the heavy frames and bases of the sanctuary, many today support the church through practical service. Your faithful participation in these duties matters deeply to God, who sees and records the quiet loyalty of His servants.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Shoham1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/שֹׁ֥הַם1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 24:27
The sons of Merari by Jaaziah: Beno, Shoham, Zaccur, and Ibri.
This verse lists Shoḥam as a son of Jaaziah within the Merarite clan, establishing his specific place in the Levitical service structure.