Shimei(14)
Shimei in the Bible — Levite who had married a foreign wife (EZR 10:23). Shimei belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 2 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “Shimi, that hears or obeys; my reputation; my fame”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Levi
- Scripture References
- 2 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 1 connection
Biography
Shimei was a male Levite known for having married a foreign wife, a fact recorded in the book of Ezra. His identity as a Levite places him within the tribe entrusted with religious duties in Israel. Beyond this unique attribute, Scripture does not provide additional personal details about him.
Names & Titles
The name Shimei means 'YHWH has heard' or 'famous' in Hebrew. This proper name reflects a common theophoric element referencing God's attentiveness or renown, though the name itself was not given directly by God.
Family
Scripture explicitly identifies Shimei as a descendant of Levi, confirming his tribal lineage. No further family relationships are recorded beyond his marriage to a foreign wife.
Significance
Shimei's mention highlights the challenges faced by the post-exilic community in maintaining covenantal purity, particularly concerning intermarriage. His marriage to a foreign wife signifies a point of concern addressed in Ezra's reforms, emphasizing the community's call to faithfulness to God's commands. Thus, Shimei serves as a representative example of the Levites who needed to align their lives with God's covenant during the restoration period.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- שִׁמְעִי
- Transliteration
- shiməiy
- Meaning
- y-h-v-h has heard' or 'famous'
- Greek
- Σαμου
- Reference
- EZR 10:23
- Strong's
- H8096
Family & Relationships (1)
descendant
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Shimei in the Bible?
Shimei was a male Levite known for having married a foreign wife, a fact recorded in the book of Ezra. His identity as a Levite places him within the tribe entrusted with religious duties in Israel. Beyond this unique attribute, Scripture does not provide additional personal details about him.
What does the name Shimei mean?
The name Shimei means “Shimi, that hears or obeys; my reputation; my fame” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.