שָׁפָם (sha.pham)
sha.pham
Shapham
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 Shapham refers to a specific individual from the tribe of Gad, recorded only in 1 Chronicles 5:12. He is identified as a subchief or leader among his people during the period of the Divided Monarchy, residing in the region of Bashan.
Lexical sources define the name’s meaning as "bold." This etymology suggests a personal characteristic of courage or steadfastness, fitting for a tribal leader responsible for his community in a contested territory. The brevity of the biblical record highlights his role within the genealogical lists that trace the lineage and settlement of Israel’s eastern tribes.
As a proper noun with a single scriptural occurrence, Shapham serves as a marker of continuity within the tribal structure of Gad. His mention preserves the memory of local leadership in Bashan, contributing to the historical inventory of those who maintained their identity and position during the monarchy era.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Shapham appears only once in Scripture, recorded in 1 Chronicles 5:12 among the descendants of Gad. The meaning "bold" or "steadfast" offers a quiet glimpse into the character expected of leaders in ancient Israel. These names were not just labels but affirmations of the traits needed to guide communities through uncertain times.
For believers today, this brief mention reminds us that God values faithful presence within His people. Leadership is not limited to famous figures; it includes those who hold their ground and support their neighbors with quiet courage. In our own lives, we are called to be steadfast in love and reliable in community, reflecting the stability that comes from trusting in God's enduring plan.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Shapham1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/שָׁפָ֖ם1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 5:12
Joel the chief, Shapham the second, Janai, and Shaphat in Bashan.
This verse places Shapham as the second-in-command under Joel, showing how leadership roles were structured within the tribe of Gad in Bashan.