שַׁמָּה (sham.mah)
sham.mah
Shammah
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 7 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Shammah (שַׁמָּה) means "astonishment" or "desolation." In the Hebrew Bible, this title is applied to five distinct individuals, spanning from the era of the Patriarchs to the United Monarchy under King David. The sources identify one as a chief in Edom, a grandson of Esau, and the other four as significant figures in David’s household and military.
Among David’s men, Shammah appears most prominently as the third son of Jesse and brother of David (1 Chronicles 2:13–15). He is also listed among David’s "mighty warriors," with specific accounts highlighting his valor. For instance, one Shammah defended a lentil field against Philistine raiders (2 Samuel 23:11–12), while another, the son of Agee, is noted for his service alongside other heroes (2 Samuel 23:33; 1 Chronicles 11:34). The repetition of this striking name among different clans suggests it was a memorable designation for those who inspired awe through their deeds or lineage.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Shammah carries a weight of meaning that goes beyond simple identification. It translates to 'astonishment' or 'desolation,' evoking images of something so striking it leaves observers in awe, or perhaps the quiet aftermath of conflict. In the biblical narrative, this name appears across generations, linking distant clans to the heart of Israel’s monarchy. It reminds us that God often uses names and lineages to weave together stories of resilience and unexpected strength.
When we encounter Shammah in the accounts of David’s mighty warriors, we see individuals who stood firm when others might have fled. One Shammah defended a humble lentil field against Philistine raiders, turning a simple agricultural plot into a place of divine victory. This detail invites us to consider how ordinary moments—tending our own 'fields' of responsibility and faith—can become arenas for extraordinary courage. God honors those who stand their ground with quiet integrity.
Whether appearing as a descendant of Esau or a brother of David, the name Shammah suggests that awe-inspiring deeds often arise from unexpected places. It encourages us to look beyond surface appearances and recognize the potential for strength in our own lives. May you find encouragement in knowing that your steadfastness, even in small things, is seen and valued by God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Shammah6×
- [was] Shammah1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- שַׁמָּה֙2×
- שַׁמָּֽה\׃1×
- שַׁמָּ֥ה1×
- שַׁמָּ֣ה1×
- שַׁמָּ֖ה1×
- שַׁמָּ֑ה1×
Key Verses
-
I Samuel 16:9
Then Jesse made Shammah to pass by. He said, “Yahweh has not chosen this one, either.”
This verse highlights the human tendency to overlook those who do not fit expected molds, contrasting with God’s choice of David.
-
II Samuel 23:25
Shammah the Harodite, Elika the Harodite,
Shammah the Harodite is listed among David’s elite warriors, showing how his name became associated with military loyalty and strength.
-
I Chronicles 1:37
The sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah.
This genealogical record connects Shammah to Esau’s lineage, illustrating the complex interweaving of Israel’s neighboring families.