Shemuel is a biblical figure recognized as a leader within the tribe of Issachar, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. His name, Shemuel, is understood to mean "heard of God" or "name of God," reflecting a common practice in Hebrew culture of embedding theological significance within personal names.

Biblical Reference:

Shemuel is mentioned in the Book of Numbers, specifically in the context of the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. In Numbers 34:24 , it is recorded: "And the leader from the tribe of the sons of Issachar is Shemuel son of Ammihud." This passage identifies Shemuel as a prominent figure entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the allocation of land, a task that required wisdom, integrity, and a deep understanding of tribal needs and boundaries.

Role and Significance:

As a head of a family within the tribe of Issachar, Shemuel's role would have been significant in the socio-political and religious life of his community. The tribe of Issachar, known for its understanding of the times and seasons (1 Chronicles 12:32), would have relied on leaders like Shemuel to guide them in accordance with God's will and the covenantal promises given to Israel.

Shemuel's leadership during the division of the land underscores the importance of tribal leaders in maintaining order and ensuring that each family received its rightful inheritance. This process was not merely a logistical task but a fulfillment of divine promise, as the land was seen as a gift from God to His people.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near Eastern context, tribal leaders like Shemuel played crucial roles in mediating between the divine and the community. They were expected to uphold the laws given through Moses and to ensure that the community lived in accordance with God's commandments. The division of the land was a pivotal moment in Israel's history, marking the transition from a nomadic lifestyle to settled life in the Promised Land.

Theological Implications:

Shemuel's mention in the Bible, though brief, highlights the theme of divine providence and faithfulness. His role in the distribution of the land serves as a reminder of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and the fulfillment of those promises through their descendants. It also reflects the orderly and just nature of God's plan for His people, as each tribe and family received their portion according to divine instruction.

In summary, Shemuel, as a leader of the tribe of Issachar, exemplifies the qualities of faithfulness, leadership, and obedience to God's commands. His contribution to the history of Israel, though not extensively detailed, is a testament to the importance of godly leadership in the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.1 Chronicles 7:2
And the sons of Tola; Uzzi, and Rephaiah, and Jeriel, and Jahmai, and Jibsam, and Shemuel, heads of their father's house, to wit, of Tola: they were valiant men of might in their generations; whose number was in the days of David two and twenty thousand and six hundred.
Nave's Topical Index

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus