King James Version

What Does Numbers 1:6 Mean?

Numbers 1:6 in the King James Version says “Of Simeon; Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Of Simeon; Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.”

Numbers 1:6 · KJV

Context

4

And with you there shall be a man of every tribe; every one head of the house of his fathers.

5

And these are the names of the men that shall stand with you: of the tribe of Reuben; Elizur the son of Shedeur.

6

Of Simeon; Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.

7

Of Judah; Nahshon the son of Amminadab.

8

Of Issachar; Nethaneel the son of Zuar.

Read Numbers 1 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study 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.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural 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.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's inclusion of Simeon's tribe despite their ancestor's sin demonstrate the triumph of grace over judgment?
  2. What encouragement does this provide for believers whose family history includes serious sin or failure?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
לְשִׁמְע֕וֹן1 of 4

“Of Simeon”

H8095

shimon, one of jacob's sons, also the tribe descended from him

שְׁלֻֽמִיאֵ֖ל2 of 4

“Shelumiel”

H8017

shelumiel, an israelite

בֶּן3 of 4

“the son”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

צוּרִֽישַׁדָּֽי׃4 of 4

“of Zurishaddai”

H6701

tsurishaddai, an israelite

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Numbers 1:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Numbers 1:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Numbers 7:36Numbers 2:12

Test Your Knowledge

Numbers 1 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterNumbers Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Numbers 1 with CommentaryAll Numbers ChaptersComplete Numbers QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes