Shemaiah(16)
Shemaiah in the Bible — descendant of Harim who had married a foreign wife (EZR 10:31). Referenced in 2 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “that hears or obeys the Lord”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Scripture References
- 2 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 1 connection
Biography
Shemaiah is a male biblical figure identified as a descendant of Harim who had married a foreign wife. There is no additional information about his tribe or further notes. His mention is brief and specific, highlighting a particular issue addressed in the post-exilic community.
Names & Titles
The name Shemaiah means 'YHWH hears,' reflecting a theophoric element that acknowledges God's attentive nature. This proper name is not indicated as being given directly by God but carries a significant meaning rooted in Hebrew tradition.
Family
Shemaiah is explicitly described as a descendant of Harim. Beyond this, Scripture does not record any other family relationships for him.
Significance
Shemaiah's significance lies in his association with the post-exilic reforms concerning intermarriage, as he is noted for having married a foreign wife. This detail situates him within the broader narrative of Israel's efforts to maintain covenantal purity and obedience to God after the exile, emphasizing the community's challenges and the need for faithful adherence to God's commands.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- שְׁמַעְיָה
- Transliteration
- shəmaəyah
- Meaning
- y-h-v-h hears
- Greek
- Σαμαια
- Reference
- EZR 10:31
- Strong's
- H8098
Family & Relationships (1)
descendant
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Shemaiah in the Bible?
Shemaiah is a male biblical figure identified as a descendant of Harim who had married a foreign wife. There is no additional information about his tribe or further notes. His mention is brief and specific, highlighting a particular issue addressed in the post-exilic community.
What does the name Shemaiah mean?
The name Shemaiah means “that hears or obeys the Lord” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.