Topical Encyclopedia Overview:Sham is not a direct biblical term or character but is often associated with the Hebrew word "sham," meaning "there" or "name." In biblical contexts, it can be related to the concept of a place or a designation. The term is significant in understanding various biblical narratives and theological concepts, particularly in the context of names and places that hold spiritual or historical importance. Biblical Context: The Hebrew word "sham" appears frequently in the Old Testament, often used to denote a specific location or to emphasize the presence of God in a particular place. For example, in Genesis 22:14, after God provides a ram for Abraham to sacrifice instead of his son Isaac, Abraham names the place "The LORD Will Provide," which in Hebrew is "Yahweh Yireh," indicating that God is present and active "there." Theological Significance: The concept of "sham" is deeply intertwined with the idea of God's presence and provision. In the Old Testament, the naming of places often reflects a significant encounter with God or a divine intervention. These names serve as a memorial to God's faithfulness and a reminder of His promises. For instance, in Exodus 3:12, God assures Moses of His presence by saying, "I will certainly be with you. And this will be the sign to you that I have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain." Related Concepts: 1. Names and Identity: In biblical thought, names are not merely labels but carry deep significance, often reflecting the character or destiny of a person or place. The use of "sham" in naming places underscores the importance of divine encounters and the identity of God as revealed in those moments. 2. Divine Presence: The term "sham" highlights the belief in God's omnipresence and His active involvement in the world. It serves as a reminder that God is not confined to a single location but is present wherever His people are. 3. Memorials and Remembrance: The naming of places with "sham" often serves as a memorial, a way for the Israelites to remember God's acts of salvation and provision. These names become part of the collective memory of the community, reinforcing their faith and trust in God. Scriptural References: · Genesis 22:14 : "And Abraham called that place The LORD Will Provide. So to this day it is said, 'On the mountain of the LORD it will be provided.'" · Exodus 3:12 : "And God said, 'I will certainly be with you. And this will be the sign to you that I have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain.'" Conclusion: While "sham" may not refer to a specific biblical character or event, its usage in the Bible underscores the importance of God's presence and the significance of names and places in the biblical narrative. Through the concept of "sham," believers are reminded of God's faithfulness and the enduring impact of His divine encounters with humanity. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) That which deceives expectation; any trick, fraud, or device that deludes and disappoint; a make-believe; delusion; imposture, humbug.2. (n.) A false front, or removable ornamental covering. 3. (a.) False; counterfeit; pretended; feigned; unreal; as, a sham fight. 4. (v. t.) To trick; to cheat; to deceive or delude with false pretenses. 5. (v. t.) To obtrude by fraud or imposition. 6. (v. t.) To assume the manner and character of; to imitate; to ape; to feign. 7. (v. i.) To make false pretenses; to deceive; to feign; to impose. Strong's Hebrew 8033. sham -- there, thither... 8032b, 8033. sham. 8034 . there, thither. Transliteration: sham Phonetic Spelling: (shawm) Short Definition: there. ... 8032b, 8033. sham. 8034 . ... /hebrew/8033.htm - 6k 816. asham -- to offend, be guilty 3456. yasham -- to be desolate 8125. Shamsheray -- a Benjamite 1652. gasham -- to rain 8047. shammah -- waste, horror 8051. Shammua -- three Israelites 8048. Shammah -- an Edomite, also several Israelites 8037. Shamma -- an Asherite 8049. Shamhuth -- a captain of Isr. Library We Hear Much of the Human Error which Accepts what is Sham and ... To the Smyrnaeans The World, the Flesh, and the Devil All Right or all Wrong. Liberty. Psalm 31 Psalm 70 Psalm 70 To the Trallians The Church of Notre Dame De Lorette in Paris with Its Yellow ... Thesaurus Sham (1 Occurrence)... 2. (n.) A false front, or removable ornamental covering. 3. (a.) False; counterfeit; pretended; feigned; unreal; as, a sham fight. ...Sham (1 Occurrence). ... /s/sham.htm - 7k Sham'mua (1 Occurrence) Sham'mu-a (3 Occurrences) Sham'sherai (1 Occurrence) Sham'mai (4 Occurrences) Sham'mai's (1 Occurrence) Damascus (58 Occurrences) Shammoth (1 Occurrence) Shamsherai (1 Occurrence) Shammua (6 Occurrences) Resources Is faith in God a crutch? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning and significance of the crown of thorns? | GotQuestions.org What are the different names of God, and what do they mean? | GotQuestions.org Sham: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sham (1 Occurrence)2 Corinthians 11:13 Subtopics Related Terms |