Numbers 7:36
On the fifth day Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai, prince of the children of Simeon, did offer:
Original Language Analysis
בַּיּוֹם֙
day
H3117
בַּיּוֹם֙
day
Strong's:
H3117
Word #:
1 of 8
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
נָשִׂ֖יא
prince
H5387
נָשִׂ֖יא
prince
Strong's:
H5387
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, an exalted one, i.e., a king or sheik; also a rising mist
בֶּן
of the children
H1121
בֶּן
of the children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
4 of 8
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
שִׁמְע֑וֹן
of Simeon
H8095
שִׁמְע֑וֹן
of Simeon
Strong's:
H8095
Word #:
5 of 8
shimon, one of jacob's sons, also the tribe descended from him
Cross References
Historical Context
Simeon's tribe would eventually be absorbed into Judah's territory, losing distinct identity. Yet during the wilderness period, Simeon participated fully as a separate tribe. Their inclusion in the dedication offerings demonstrates that God's purposes include those who might seem marginalized or diminished. Divine grace overcomes human failure and limitation.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Simeon's inclusion despite past tribal sin encourage those burdened by family or community failures?
- What does equal participation in worship across all backgrounds teach about grace?
- In what ways should churches ensure that all members, regardless of background, have equal access to participation?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Shelumiel, prince of Simeon, offering on the fifth day continues the established pattern. Simeon's tribal history included violence (Genesis 34) and later loss of independent territory, yet his representative offers fully and equally with all others. This demonstrates that God's grace reaches beyond tribal failures to restore and include. The consistent pattern of equal offerings shows that in worship, all stand on level ground—no tribe is favored, none excluded. The Reformed understanding of justification by faith alone is reflected—all approach God the same way, through grace received by faith.