דברי הימים א, פרק ח׳, פסוק י״ב

The genealogy of the tribe of Benjamin highlights specific individuals who left a lasting physical mark on the land. In the western part of Benjamin's territory, the family of Elpaal is particularly noted for its significant regional expansion [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Although several sons are listed in this family line, the actual construction of the area's cities is credited entirely to the third son, Shemed. He alone was responsible for establishing the regional centers of Ono and Lod.

There is a slight variation in how this builder's name was recorded in different traditions. While the majority of manuscripts spell his name as Shemed, some historical texts record him as Shemer [מנחת שי, מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם].

Shemed's development efforts extended far beyond the main urban centers. When establishing Ono and Lod, he also built up the surrounding settlements. These included the smaller, dependent villages and country towns that relied on the central cities for their daily needs and security [ביאור שטיינזלץ].