Etymology and Meaning: The name Sham'mu-a (Hebrew: שַׁמּוּעַ, Shammua) is believed to mean "heard" or "renowned." This name reflects the biblical tradition of names carrying significant meanings, often indicative of the individual's role or the circumstances of their birth.

Biblical References:

1. Shammua, the Spy: Shammua is first mentioned in the Book of Numbers as one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan. He is identified as the son of Zaccur, from the tribe of Reuben. In Numbers 13:4, the Berean Standard Bible states: "These were their names: from the tribe of Reuben, Shammua son of Zaccur." Shammua's role as a spy was crucial in the reconnaissance mission to assess the Promised Land, although the report he and most of the other spies brought back was one of fear and discouragement, leading to Israel's prolonged wandering in the wilderness.

2. Shammua, the Son of David: Another individual named Shammua is listed among the sons of King David. In 1 Chronicles 14:4, the BSB records: "These are the names of the children born to him in Jerusalem: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon." Shammua, in this context, is one of David's sons born in Jerusalem, highlighting the expansion of David's family and the establishment of his dynasty in the city that would become the political and spiritual center of Israel.

Historical and Theological Significance:

· Role in the Exodus Narrative: Shammua, the spy, plays a significant role in the narrative of the Exodus and the journey to the Promised Land. His participation in the mission to Canaan and the subsequent report reflects the challenges of faith and obedience faced by the Israelites. The negative report by Shammua and the other spies, except for Joshua and Caleb, led to a pivotal moment in Israel's history, resulting in a 40-year delay in entering the land God had promised to them.

· Davidic Lineage: The mention of Shammua as a son of David underscores the importance of David's lineage in biblical history. While Shammua himself does not play a prominent role in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the genealogical records emphasizes the continuity of David's line, which is central to the messianic prophecies fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

Cultural Context: The name Shammua, like many biblical names, carries a meaning that reflects the cultural and religious values of ancient Israel. Names were often given with the hope of divine favor or as a testament to God's actions or promises. The dual mention of individuals named Shammua in different contexts illustrates the commonality of certain names and the importance of lineage and tribal identity in Israelite society.

Conclusion: The figure of Shammua, whether as a spy or a son of David, serves as a reminder of the complexities of faith and leadership in the biblical narrative. His account is interwoven with themes of trust, obedience, and the unfolding of God's plan for His people.Sham'mu-a (3 Occurrences)

Numbers 13:4
And these were their names: of the tribe of Reuben, Shammua the son of Zaccur.
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 5:14
And these are the names of those that were born unto him in Jerusalem: Shammua, and Shobab, and Nathan, and Solomon;
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 12:18
of Bilgah, Shammua; of Shemaiah, Jehonathan;
(See RSV)

Sham'mu-a (3 Occurrences)
Sham'mu-a. Sham'mua, Sham'mu-a. Shammu'a . Multi-Version Concordance
Sham'mu-a (3 Occurrences). Numbers 13:4 And these were their ...
/s/sham'mu-a.htm - 7k

Shammu'a (1 Occurrence)
Shammu'a. Sham'mu-a, Shammu'a. Shammuah . Multi-Version Concordance
Shammu'a (1 Occurrence). ... Sham'mu-a, Shammu'a. Shammuah . Reference Bible.
/s/shammu'a.htm - 6k

Sham'mua (1 Occurrence)
Sham'mua. Shammua, Sham'mua. Sham'mu-a . Multi-Version Concordance Sham'mua
(1 Occurrence). ... (See RSV). Shammua, Sham'mua. Sham'mu-a . Reference Bible.
/s/sham'mua.htm - 6k

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