Named by God

Shoham

Meaning and Origin

The name Shoham holds a significant place in biblical linguistics and symbolism. Derived from Hebrew origins, Shoham translates directly to "onyx," a precious stone often associated with beauty, strength, and spiritual depth. Onyx is mentioned multiple times in biblical texts, frequently as a material used in sacred objects, such as the priestly garments and the construction of the Tabernacle, underscoring its spiritual importance. The name Shoham reflects a connection to this rich symbolism, blending the physical beauty of the gemstone with its religious connotations.

Linguistically, Shoham is rooted in Semitic languages, and its phonetic simplicity lends itself to easy adaptation across cultures and languages. The name's association with a gemstone also ties it to themes of divine craftsmanship and permanence, making it a name imbued with both aesthetic and spiritual value. Historically, names derived from precious stones were often given to signify worth and divine favor, which aligns with Shoham's biblical and cultural significance.

Name Shoham in languages of the Bible

Shoham in languages of the Bible

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Popularity Analysis

Today, the name Shoham enjoys a unique global presence, appearing in 79 countries and finding particular popularity in Libya, India, and Egypt. This widespread usage reflects the name’s linguistic adaptability and its resonance across diverse cultures. In many regions, names derived from gemstones, such as "onyx," carry connotations of strength, beauty, and divine favor, which likely contribute to Shoham’s enduring appeal.

In modern contexts, Shoham is often chosen for its aesthetic simplicity and profound biblical roots. Parents seeking names with spiritual significance and historical depth may be drawn to Shoham for its connection to the Levitical tribes and its symbolic representation of onyx. Its popularity in countries with rich traditions of biblical and gemstone-related naming conventions further underscores its cross-cultural relevance. Shoham continues to bridge ancient spiritual heritage with contemporary naming practices, making it a meaningful choice for families worldwide.

CountryVariantRank
LibyaSoma76
IndiaSoma256
EgyptSoma322
HungarySoma357
SudanSoma505
ChadSoma696
Burkina FasoSoma834
KuwaitSoma877
MaliSoma907
Saudi ArabiaSoma953
BangladeshSoma1193
IsraelShoham1263
MoroccoSoma1306
GuyanaSoma1421
OmanSoma1634

Showing top 15 of 79 records

Biblical and Cultural Significance

In the Bible, Shoham is identified as the son of Jaaziah, a descendant of the Merarites, who were part of the Levitical tribe responsible for maintaining the sacred objects and rituals of the Tabernacle (1 Chronicles 24:27). This connection to the Levites highlights Shoham's role within a lineage deeply intertwined with divine service and worship. The name's inclusion in the genealogies of the Merarites further emphasizes its association with spiritual dedication and the continuity of faith traditions.

Shoham’s Divine Proximity Index of 70.3/100 reflects a moderate but meaningful association with God, rooted in his lineage and the sacred duties of the Levites. Meanwhile, his Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 underscores a strong connection to the broader narrative of redemption and divine purpose, as the Levitical service foreshadows the priestly role of Jesus Christ. This dual significance places Shoham in a unique position within biblical scholarship, blending historical lineage with profound spiritual symbolism.

Biblical Context

Shoham is mentioned specifically in 1 Chronicles 24:27, where he is listed as a son of Jaaziah, a descendant of Merari, the son of Levi. This brief mention situates Shoham within the genealogical records of the Levitical tribes, emphasizing his family’s role in the service of the Tabernacle. The Merarites were tasked with the transportation and care of sacred objects during Israel's wilderness journey, a duty that underscores their spiritual and communal importance.

Although Shoham’s name appears only once in scripture, its inclusion within the Levitical lineage underlines the collective significance of these tribes in maintaining Israel’s covenant relationship with God. The mention of Shoham serves as a reminder of the meticulous attention to detail in preserving genealogical and spiritual heritage within the Bible. This single reference also highlights the broader importance of every individual in fulfilling God’s divine plan, regardless of the prominence of their role in the narrative.

Divine Proximity Metrics

Biblical References

  • 1 Chronicles 24:27
Shoham | Biblical Name Meaning | Named by God