The 1946 film The Big Sleep features a scene where Carmen, the younger sister of Lauren Bacall’s character, questions the character Philip Marlowe, played by Humphrey Bogart, asking if he is a prizefighter. Bogart’s response as a private detective leads to a discussion on the origin of the term “shamus,” derived from the Yiddish word “shamash.” But how did a word for the ninth candle on a Hanukkah menorah become associated with a private detective?
The term “shamash” originally described a helper or functionary in Jewish texts dating back to the Mishnah and Talmud. It later became associated with the service light on the Hanukkah menorah, referenced in Joseph Karo’s Code of Jewish Law. Over time, the shamash’s role as a helper candle became integral to the menorah’s symbolism.
By the 13th century, the term was applied to synagogue functionaries, including the sexton or beadle, who played crucial roles in the community. This concept of the shamash as a helper or servant likely influenced its later use as a term for a detective.
The connection between “shamus” and detective may also stem from a humorous comparison between a sexton’s duties and those of a house detective. Alternatively, the word’s origin could be linked to the Irish name Seamus, which evolved into a term for a police detective.
The use of “shamus” in detective stories dates back to the early 20th century, with influences from both Irish and Yiddish language. The term’s pronunciation has varied over the years, with examples in popular culture reflecting different interpretations.
Despite its evolving usage, the word “shamus” retains its significance in the context of Hanukkah menorahs, symbolizing the service light that shines alongside the other candles once a year.
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