שֻׁפִּים (shup.pim)
shup.pim
Shuppim
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Shuppim, meaning "serpents," appears only three times in Scripture, always as a proper noun for distinct individuals rather than a common term. In 1 Chronicles 7:12, it identifies a son of Ir and grandson of Bela, placing him within the tribal lineage of Benjamin during the wilderness period. This usage highlights how family names preserved ancestral identity across generations.
A second Shuppim appears in 1 Chronicles 26:16 as a Merarite Levite responsible for guarding the West Gate of the temple under David’s reign. Brown-Driver-Briggs suggests this title may have functioned as an occupational descriptor, possibly indicating a role as a doorkeeper or guard. The repetition of the name across different tribes and eras underscores its significance in maintaining sacred spaces and tribal records.
Though brief, these references illustrate how names carried theological weight in ancient Israel. Shuppim’s association with serpents might evoke imagery of vigilance or protection, fitting for a gatekeeper tasked with guarding access to the holy place. Such details reveal the careful preservation of history and duty within biblical texts.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Shuppim appears in Scripture as a marker of identity and duty. In the tribal records of Benjamin, it preserves the lineage of Ir’s descendants, showing how family names kept ancestral memory alive across generations. This attention to detail reminds us that our own histories and relationships matter deeply to God.
Later, a Shuppim serves as a gatekeeper for the temple, guarding the West Gate under David’s reign. Whether in tribal lists or sacred service, this name reflects faithful stewardship. It invites us to consider how we might guard what is holy in our own lives—protecting peace, truth, and community with quiet vigilance.
Though brief, these references show that ordinary names can carry lasting spiritual weight. God remembers those who serve in hidden places and values the continuity of faithful families.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to/ Shuppim1×
- and/ for/ Shuppim1×
- and/ Shuppim1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- לְ/שֻׁפִּ֤ים1×
- וּ/לְ/שֻׁפִּ֔ים1×
- וְ/שֻׁפִּ֤ם1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 7:12
So were Shuppim, Huppim, the sons of Ir, Hushim, and the sons of Aher.
This verse establishes Shuppim as part of Benjamin’s tribal lineage, preserving ancestral identity through recorded generations.
-
I Chronicles 26:16
To Shuppim and Hosah westward, by the gate of Shallecheth, at the causeway that goes up, watchman opposite watchman.
Here Shuppim is assigned to guard the West Gate, highlighting a role of vigilance and sacred responsibility in temple service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Shuppim mean?
How is Shuppim different from other names in Chronicles?
Where does the name Shuppim appear in the Bible?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
I Chronicles 3 verses
So were Shuppim, Huppim, the sons of Ir, Hushim, and the sons of Aher.
I Chronicles 7:15Machir took a wife of Huppim and Shuppim, whose sister’s name was Maacah. The name of the second was Zelophehad; and…
I Chronicles 26:16To Shuppim and Hosah westward, by the gate of Shallecheth, at the causeway that goes up, watchman opposite watchman.