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Shemaiah(6)

Shemaiah in the Bible — son of Galal (1CH 9:16). 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
2 names
Relationships
2 connections

Biography

Shemaiah was a male Levite known specifically as the son of Galal, as recorded in 1 Chronicles 9:16. His identity is primarily grounded in his tribal affiliation with Levi and his paternal lineage. Beyond these details, Scripture does not provide additional notes about his life or role.

Names & Titles

The name Shemaiah means 'YHWH hears,' reflecting a theologically rich Hebrew name that emphasizes God's attentiveness. Another form of his name, Shammua, possibly shares a similar meaning, 'YHWH hears' or 'rumor,' indicating a connection to divine communication or awareness.

Family

Shemaiah is explicitly identified as the son of Galal, and it is inferred that Obadiah was his father, based on 1 Chronicles 9:16. Scripture does not record further family relationships beyond these paternal connections.

Significance

Shemaiah's significance lies chiefly in his genealogical placement within the tribe of Levi, highlighting the continuation of Levitical families important for temple service and worship in Israel. His mention as the son of Galal situates him within the post-exilic community restoration narrative, underscoring God's faithfulness in preserving His covenant people through the Levitical line.

Names & Labels (2)

Shemaiahproper name
Hebrew
שְׁמַעְיָה
Transliteration
shəmaəyah
Meaning
y-h-v-h hears
Greek
Σαμαια
Reference
1CH 9:16
Strong's
H8098
Shammuaproper name
Hebrew
שַׁמּ֖וּעַ
Transliteration
shamua
Meaning
[poss.] [y-h-v-h] hears; rumor
Greek
[none]
Reference
NEH 11:17
Strong's
H8051

Family & Relationships (2)

father

Obadiah(1CH 9:16)

son

Galal(1CH 9:16)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Shemaiah in the Bible?

Shemaiah was a male Levite known specifically as the son of Galal, as recorded in 1 Chronicles 9:16. His identity is primarily grounded in his tribal affiliation with Levi and his paternal lineage. Beyond these details, Scripture does not provide additional notes about his life or role.

What does the name Shemaiah mean?

The name Shemaiah means “that hears or obeys the Lord” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.

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