שִׁכְמִי (shikh.mi)
shikh.mi
Shechemite
N:N--PGQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--PG
Word Overview
The noun shikhmi refers to a member of the clan descended from Shechem, the eldest son of Gilead and grandson of Makir in the tribe of Manasseh. This term appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in Numbers 26:31, where it functions as a collective label for this specific family group during the census taken before the Israelites entered Canaan.
Its meaning is derived directly from the name Shechem (H7928), which itself likely relates to the word for "shoulder" or refers to the geographical region between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim. While other biblical uses of "Shechem" often evoke complex political or violent histories, this particular gentilic form is purely genealogical, identifying lineage rather than character or location.
Because it occurs in a census list, the word carries no narrative weight or theological commentary. It serves simply to record identity within the tribal structure of Israel, distinguishing these descendants from other clans like those of Abiezer or Helek. The term highlights how ancient Israelite society organized itself around family roots and ancestral names.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
In a world that often asks us to define ourselves by our achievements or current circumstances, this rare word reminds us that identity is deeply rooted in lineage. The term 'Shechemite' appears only once in Scripture, marking a specific family group within the tribe of Manasseh. It serves as a simple label in a census, yet it affirms that every individual had a place and a name recorded in God’s people.
This genealogical detail highlights the value God places on order and heritage. Even in lists that might seem dry to modern readers, we see a community organized around family roots. It is a quiet assurance that no one is overlooked or forgotten in the broader story of Israel. Your own background and history are part of a larger narrative that God knows intimately.
Reflecting on these ancient records can bring comfort, knowing that your identity is secure in God’s hands. Just as these families were counted and recognized, you are known by name. This perspective invites us to honor our roots while trusting in the eternal hope that connects all believers across generations.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- the/ Shechemite[s]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- הַ/שִּׁכְמִֽי\׃1×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 26:31
and Asriel, the family of the Asrielites; and Shechem, the family of the Shechemites;
This verse identifies the Shechemites as a distinct family unit within the census, showing how lineage was used to organize the tribes before entering the Promised Land.