Shem is a name of Hebrew origin that means "name" or "reputation." It is the name of one of Noah's sons in the Bible and is also mentioned in the Book of Jubilees, where it is said to mean "famous" or "renowned."
The name Shem first appears in the biblical flood story in Genesis 5:26-29, where Noah has three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. After the flood, Noah plants a vineyard and becomes drunk on wine. He lies uncovered in his tent, and Ham sees him naked and tells his brothers, who cover their father without looking at him. When Noah wakes up, he curses Canaan (Ham's son) for what Ham has done and blesses Shem and Japheth.
Shem is also mentioned in other biblical texts, such as the Book of Chronicles and the New Testament, where he is listed among the ancestors of Jesus Christ. In Jewish tradition, Shem is considered one of the three patriarchs along with Abraham and Isaac.
In addition to its biblical significance, the name Shem has been used throughout history by various cultures and languages. It was a popular name in medieval Europe and has been used in modern times as well, particularly among families of Hebrew or Arabic descent.
Today, Shem is still a popular name in many parts of the world, although it may be more commonly spelled "Sham" or "Chem." Its meaning continues to resonate with people who appreciate its biblical significance and powerful message about reputation and fame.
The name Shem has seen a varied number of births in the United States over the past seven decades. Starting with just five births in 1954, the number of babies named Shem fluctuated annually, reaching its peak in 1976 with 23 births.
From 1977 onwards, the number of births per year began to decline, with a notable drop in 1985 where only eight babies were named Shem. However, there was a brief resurgence in popularity from 1990 to 1994, with the highest count during this period being 16 births in 1991.
After 1994, the number of yearly births with the name Shem stabilized and remained relatively low, ranging from six to 17 births per year. The most recent data shows that there were 17 births named Shem in 2022, indicating a consistent level of popularity for this name.
In total, over the past seven decades, there have been 727 babies born in the United States with the name Shem. While it may not be one of the most popular names, its steady presence throughout the years demonstrates that it continues to appeal to parents as a unique and meaningful choice for their child's name.