Numbers 1:6
Of Simeon; Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.
Original Language Analysis
לְשִׁמְע֕וֹן
Of Simeon
H8095
לְשִׁמְע֕וֹן
Of Simeon
Strong's:
H8095
Word #:
1 of 4
shimon, one of jacob's sons, also the tribe descended from him
Historical Context
Simeon's tribe, though cursed by Jacob to be scattered in Israel, still received representation in the wilderness census and maintained tribal identity. This occurred around 1445 BC during the organization of Israel at Sinai.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's inclusion of Simeon's tribe despite their ancestor's sin demonstrate the triumph of grace over judgment?
- What encouragement does this provide for believers whose family history includes serious sin or failure?
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Analysis & Commentary
Shelumiel son of Zurishaddai represents Simeon, the tribe descended from Jacob's second son. Despite Simeon's violent past (Genesis 34) and Jacob's prophetic curse (Genesis 49:5-7), God's grace still included this tribe in the covenant community, demonstrating that divine election transcends human merit or demerit. The specific naming patterns reflect the Hebrew practice of preserving family identity and covenant continuity.