Shemaiah(14)
Shemaiah in the Bible — Levite Ezra sent to Iddo (EZR 8:16). Shemaiah belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 4 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “that hears or obeys the Lord”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Levi
- Scripture References
- 4 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 3 connections
Biography
Shemaiah is a male Levite known for his role as a Levite whom Ezra sent to Iddo. His tribal affiliation with Levi identifies him as part of the priestly lineage in Israel. There are no additional notes recorded about his life or ministry.
Names & Titles
The name Shemaiah means 'YHWH hears,' reflecting a theophoric element that acknowledges God's attentive nature. This proper name, as presented, does not have a divine origin but carries significant spiritual meaning tied to God's responsiveness.
Family
Shemaiah is identified as a descendant of Levi, affirming his Levitical heritage. He is inferred to be the son of Jonathan and explicitly noted as the father of Mattaniah, establishing a clear familial line within the Levite tribe.
Significance
Shemaiah's significance lies in his service during the post-exilic period, particularly in the context of Ezra's leadership when he was sent to Iddo. His Levitical status and role support the restoration of proper worship and temple service among the returned exiles, highlighting the continuity of God's covenant people through faithful priestly families.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- שְׁמַעְיָה
- Transliteration
- shəmaəyah
- Meaning
- y-h-v-h hears
- Greek
- Σαμαια
- Reference
- EZR 8:16
- Strong's
- H8098
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Shemaiah in the Bible?
Shemaiah is a male Levite known for his role as a Levite whom Ezra sent to Iddo. His tribal affiliation with Levi identifies him as part of the priestly lineage in Israel. There are no additional notes recorded about his life or ministry.
What does the name Shemaiah mean?
The name Shemaiah means “that hears or obeys the Lord” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.