Shama is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin. His name appears in 1 Chronicles 8:32 and 9:38, where he is listed among the descendants of Saul, the first king of Israel. The name "Shama" is derived from the Hebrew root "shama," meaning "to hear" or "to listen," which is a common theme in biblical names, often reflecting a characteristic or a divine interaction.

In the genealogical context, Shama is noted as one of the sons of Elpaal, a descendant of Benjamin. The tribe of Benjamin holds significant importance in Israel's history, being one of the twelve tribes and the tribe from which King Saul originated. The genealogies in Chronicles serve to establish the historical and familial connections of the Israelites, emphasizing the continuity of God's covenant with His people through their lineage.

The mention of Shama, though brief, contributes to the broader narrative of the tribe of Benjamin and its role in the history of Israel. The genealogies in 1 Chronicles highlight the importance of family heritage and the fulfillment of God's promises through successive generations. While Shama himself is not a central figure in biblical events, his inclusion in the genealogical record underscores the value placed on lineage and the preservation of tribal identity within the biblical narrative.

Jeiel

Jeiel is a name that appears multiple times in the Old Testament, associated with different individuals across various contexts. The name "Jeiel" means "God sweeps away" or "God gathers," reflecting a divine action or characteristic. One of the notable mentions of Jeiel is found in 1 Chronicles 9:35-36, where he is identified as the father of Gibeon and the ancestor of a prominent family in the tribe of Benjamin.

In this context, Jeiel is recognized as the "father of Gibeon," indicating his role as a patriarchal figure in the city of Gibeon, which held strategic and historical significance in Israel's history. Gibeon was known for its covenant with Joshua and the Israelites, as recorded in the book of Joshua, and later became a Levitical city. The genealogical records in Chronicles emphasize the importance of Jeiel's lineage, linking him to the broader narrative of Israel's history and God's covenantal relationship with His people.

Another mention of Jeiel is found in 2 Chronicles 29:13, where he is listed among the Levites who participated in the cleansing of the temple during the reign of King Hezekiah. This Jeiel, a Levite, played a role in the religious reforms initiated by Hezekiah, which aimed to restore proper worship and adherence to the Law of Moses. The involvement of Jeiel in this significant religious revival highlights the active participation of the Levites in maintaining the spiritual integrity of the nation.

The multiple references to individuals named Jeiel across different contexts in the Old Testament illustrate the commonality of the name and its association with various roles and responsibilities within the Israelite community. Whether as a patriarchal figure or a participant in religious reforms, the name Jeiel signifies a connection to God's ongoing work among His people, reflecting the diverse ways in which individuals contributed to the unfolding of biblical history.