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שֻׁם (shum)

shum

name

H8036 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 8 verses

A:N-M

Quick Reference

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

Word Overview

The word shum is the Aramaic form of the Hebrew shem, meaning "name." It appears in eight verses, primarily within the books of Ezra and Daniel, where it functions as a standard term for identity or reputation.

In these contexts, the word often carries theological weight, referring to God’s name as a symbol of His presence and authority. For instance, in Daniel 3:15, King Nebuchadnezzar demands that worship be given to his image, threatening death if anyone refuses to do so in the name of the king. This usage highlights how a name represents not just a label, but the power and essence of the one who bears it.

Translators typically render shum as "name," preserving its straightforward function while allowing the surrounding context to convey whether the emphasis is on personal identity, divine presence, or authoritative command. Its limited occurrence in the Old Testament Aramaic sections keeps its meaning tightly focused on these concrete applications.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

In the Aramaic sections of Ezra and Daniel, the word for 'name' carries a weight far beyond a simple label. It stands for the very essence, authority, and presence of the one it identifies. When the prophets spoke in the name of the God of Israel, they were not just quoting instructions; they were acting with His full backing and power. This reminds us that our connection to God is rooted in who He truly is, not just what He does.

Even King Nebuchadnezzar, a ruler known for his pride, recognized that a name held real power. Yet the text points us to a higher truth: the God whose name dwells in Jerusalem is the one who sustains history and protects His people. We find comfort in knowing that the same God who inspired Daniel to bless His name is still worthy of our trust today.

When we call upon God’s name, we are aligning ourselves with His character and promises. It is an act of faith that acknowledges His sovereignty over every situation, from ancient building projects to the challenges we face now. May you find peace in knowing that His name represents a faithful presence that never changes.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 8 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • name/ his5×
  • names/ their1×
  • in/ [the] name of1×
  • [the] names of1×
  • [the] name of1×

Forms in the text

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

  • שְׁמֵ֖/הּ2×
  • שֻׁם\־1×
  • שְׁמָהָתְ/הֹ֛ם1×
  • שְׁמָהָ֣ת1×
  • שְׁמֵ֤/הּ1×
  • שְׁמֵ֣/הּ1×
  • שְׁמֵ֔/הּ1×
  • בְּ/שֻׁ֛ם1×

Key Verses

  • Ezra 5:1
    Now the prophets, Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo, prophesied to the Jews who were in Judah and Jerusalem. They prophesied to them in the name of the God of Israel.

    This verse shows the prophets acting with divine authority by speaking specifically in the name of the God of Israel.

  • Daniel 2:20
    Daniel answered, “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever; for wisdom and might are his.

    Here Daniel praises God, linking His name directly to the eternal wisdom and power that sustain all things.

  • Ezra 6:12
    May the God who has caused his name to dwell there overthrow all kings and peoples who stretch out their hand to alter this, to destroy this house of God which is at Jerusalem. I Darius have made a decree. Let it be done with all diligence.

    The decree highlights that God’s name dwelling in the temple is the reason for the protection of His house against enemies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Aramaic word shum mean?

Shum is the Aramaic form of the Hebrew word shem, meaning 'name.' In the books of Ezra and Daniel, it refers to identity, reputation, or the authority of the one being named. It is often used to describe God’s presence or a king’s command.

Why is 'name' important in Daniel and Ezra?

In these books, a name represents more than just a title; it signifies the power and essence of the person. When prophets spoke in God’s name, they carried His authority. Similarly, when kings acted in their own name, they asserted their rule. The word highlights how identity and power are linked.

How is shum different from other words for 'name'?

Shum is specifically the Aramaic form used in the later parts of the Old Testament. While it means the same as the Hebrew shem, its use in Ezra and Daniel reflects the linguistic shift during the exile. It appears only eight times, focusing on concrete instances of authority and identity.

Every Occurrence (8 verses across 2 books)

Ezra 5 verses
Ezra 5:1

Now the prophets, Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo, prophesied to the Jews who were in Judah and…

Ezra 5:4

They also asked for the names of the men who were making this building.

Ezra 5:10

We asked them their names also, to inform you that we might write the names of the men who were at their head.

Ezra 5:14

The gold and silver vessels of God’s house, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple that was in Jerusalem and…

Ezra 6:12

May the God who has caused his name to dwell there overthrow all kings and peoples who stretch out their hand to alter…

Daniel 3 verses