Shu'ah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the Book of Genesis. He is recognized as one of the sons of Abraham through Keturah, whom Abraham married after the death of Sarah. The name Shu'ah is sometimes rendered as "Shuah" in various translations of the Bible.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 25:1-2 : "Now Abraham had taken another wife, named Keturah, and she bore him Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah." This passage introduces Shu'ah as one of the six sons born to Abraham and Keturah. The mention of Shu'ah in this genealogical context highlights the expansion of Abraham's lineage beyond Isaac and Ishmael, his more prominently featured sons.

2. 1 Chronicles 1:32 : "The sons born to Keturah, Abraham’s concubine: Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah. The sons of Jokshan: Sheba and Dedan." This verse reiterates the genealogy found in Genesis, confirming Shu'ah's place among the descendants of Abraham through Keturah. The chronicler's account serves to preserve the record of Abraham's extended family and their subsequent roles in the unfolding biblical narrative.

Historical and Theological Context:

Shu'ah, like his brothers, represents the broader fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would be "a father of many nations" (Genesis 17:4). While the primary covenantal promises were established through Isaac, the son of Sarah, the descendants of Keturah, including Shu'ah, are seen as part of the larger Abrahamic blessing that would impact many peoples and nations.

The descendants of Keturah, including Shu'ah, are often associated with various tribes and regions in the ancient Near East. Although the Bible does not provide extensive details about Shu'ah's life or his descendants, some biblical scholars and historians suggest that the Shu'ahites may have been a nomadic tribe or group that settled in the Arabian Peninsula or surrounding areas.

Cultural and Linguistic Notes:

The name Shu'ah is of Semitic origin, and its meaning is often associated with "wealth" or "prosperity." This etymological insight provides a glimpse into the cultural values and aspirations of the time, where names were often reflective of desired traits or blessings.

In the broader biblical narrative, the mention of figures like Shu'ah serves to underscore the diversity and complexity of Abraham's family tree. It also highlights the interconnectedness of various peoples and tribes in the ancient world, many of whom played significant roles in the history of Israel and its neighbors.

Conclusion:

While Shu'ah himself is not a central figure in the biblical account, his inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the expansive nature of Abraham's legacy. The descendants of Keturah, including Shu'ah, contribute to the rich tapestry of nations and peoples that emerge from the Abrahamic line, fulfilling God's promise of blessing and multiplication.Shu'ah (1 Occurrence)

1 Chronicles 1:32
And the sons of Keturah, Abraham's concubine: she bore Zimran, and Jokshan, and Medan, and Midian, and Ishbak, and Shuah. And the sons of Jokshan: Sheba, and Dedan.
(See RSV)

Shu'ah (1 Occurrence)
Shu'ah. Shuah, Shu'ah. Shual . Multi-Version Concordance Shu'ah (1 Occurrence).
1 Chronicles 1:32 And the sons of Keturah, Abraham's ...
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Shual (6 Occurrences)

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Shuah (5 Occurrences)

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