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Origin and meaning of the name Shammah

What is the origin of the name Shammah?

The Hebrew name Shammah has its origins in ancient Israel and Judaism. It is derived from the Hebrew word "shamah" which means "he heard". In the Bible, there are several individuals named Shammah, such as a Levite during the time of Ezra and Nehemiah, as well as one of David's mighty men.

Learn more about the origin of the name Shammah

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Shammah

The name Shammah is of Hebrew origin, derived from the root words "sham" (שם) meaning "name" and "ah" (אה) indicating "father." It translates to "devoted to God" or "God has heard," reflecting its religious significance in ancient Hebrew culture. The name is most notably associated with Shammah, one of the warriors who defended the city of Nob during the reign of King Saul, as recorded in the Old Testament's Book of Joshua (Chapter 20:7). It was also the name of a Levite priest mentioned in the Books of Samuel and Chronicles. In contemporary times, Shammah continues to be used among Hebrew speakers and has gained recognition in other cultures due to its rich historical and religious associations.

Character traits associated with the name Shammah

Shammah, as a name, is often associated with courage and strength. Derived from the Hebrew word "shamah" meaning "heard" or "obeyed," a person named Shammah might be someone who pays close attention to instructions, demonstrating obedience and diligence. The biblical figure Shammah son of Agee the Hararite, who stood firm against the Philistines at Beth-shemesh (2 Samuel 23:11), symbolizes this trait of courage, as he was one of eight warriors who stood their ground among ten thousand. Additionally, individuals named Shammah may exhibit leadership qualities, as they are likely to be reliable and resolute in the face of adversity. Overall, the name Shammah suggests a strong-willed, attentive, and valiant individual.

Popularity of the name Shammah

The popularity of the name Shammah varies significantly across regions and time periods. Originating from Hebrew, meaning "comrade" or "companion," Shammah is primarily associated with Judaism due to its usage in the Bible. In contemporary times, its usage outside Jewish communities is relatively uncommon. In Israel, where it remains a traditional name among Jews, it has seen a steady decline in popularity over the past few decades, as more unique and modern names have emerged. In the United States, it's seldom used, with only a handful of births each year. However, within specific Jewish communities worldwide, particularly those that value tradition and cultural heritage, Shammah continues to be a beloved choice for newborns.

Famous people with the name Shammah

Shammah is a rare yet significant name that has been borne by a few notable figures throughout history. One of the most renowned is Rabbi Shammai (circa 50 BCE – 30 CE), a leading Jewish scholar during the time of the Second Temple, known for his stringent interpretations of Jewish law and his teachings on ethics. In modern times, Shamma Sabbatini (born 1972) is an Israeli professional golfer who has competed in major championships such as The Masters Tournament and The Open Championship. Additionally, Shama Sabawi (born 1985), a Palestinian-Canadian poet, journalist, and human rights activist, has been recognized for her powerful works focusing on the plight of Palestinians. Lastly, Shamma Harari (born 1974), an Israeli designer, co-founded the fashion brand "See by Chloé" in 2006, before leaving to focus on her own label, "Shama Harari."

Variations of the name Shammah

Shammah is primarily a masculine name with Hebrew origins, derived from the Hebrew word "Shamah" which means "he heard." Here are some variations and spellings of the name Shammah:

1. Shamma (pronounced SHAH-mah): A shorter form of the original name, this spelling is still pronounced in a similar way.
2. Shammie (pronounced SHAM-ee): This spelling is a pet form or nickname for Shamma, often used affectionately among friends and family.
3. Shammy (pronounced SHAM-ee): Another pet form of the name, this spelling is less common but still recognized as a variation of Shammah.
4. Schamah (pronounced SHAH-mah): This spelling is an alternate transliteration of the original Hebrew name into German or Yiddish. It may be used by families with these cultural backgrounds.
5. Sammy (pronounced SAHM-ee): Though not a direct variation, this spelling is occasionally used as a diminutive form for Shammah, especially in English-speaking countries.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 15 June 2025

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