Shimeon
Meaning and Origin
The name Shimeon, derived from the Hebrew root shama, carries the profound meaning of 'a hearing' or 'one who hears.' This etymology reflects a sense of attentiveness and receptivity, qualities often valued in biblical narratives. The linguistic roots of the name connect it to a broader tradition within Hebrew culture, where names often encapsulate divine attributes or human virtues. Historically, Shimeon is a name that emphasizes the act of listening, possibly in a spiritual or divine context, which aligns with many biblical themes of obedience and attentiveness to God's word.
Name Shimeon in languages of the Bible
Hover or touch to magnify
Popularity Analysis
The name Shimeon has traversed geographical and cultural boundaries, finding recognition in at least 140 countries worldwide. It is notably popular in places like India, Namibia, and Liberia, where biblical names often carry significant cultural and spiritual weight. The global presence of Shimeon reflects the enduring influence of the Bible in shaping naming traditions across diverse societies. In modern contexts, the name may be chosen for its historical and spiritual connotations, symbolizing qualities such as attentiveness, obedience, and a connection to divine principles.
| Country | Variant | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| India | Sima | 54 |
| Namibia | Simeon | 98 |
| Liberia | Simeon | 148 |
| Sierra Leone | Simeon | 149 |
| Vanuatu | Simeon | 194 |
| Bulgaria | Simeon | 251 |
| Equatorial Guinea | Simeon | 272 |
| Malawi | Simeon | 305 |
| Ethiopia | Sima | 349 |
| Papua New Guinea | Simeon | 424 |
| Slovakia | Sima | 486 |
| Burundi | Simeon | 489 |
| Kenya | Simeon | 524 |
| Haiti | Simeon | 532 |
| Trinidad and Tobago | Simeon | 534 |
Showing top 15 of 140 records
Biblical and Cultural Significance
Shimeon holds a modest yet meaningful place in biblical history. One notable individual with this name is a descendant of Harim mentioned in Ezra 10:31. This Shimeon is recorded as one of the Israelites who took significant steps to align with the covenant by divorcing his foreign wife, an act symbolizing a return to spiritual purity and adherence to the Law of Moses during the post-exilic period. With a Divine Proximity Index of 70.3/100, the name Shimeon reflects a moderate connection to God in scripture, often appearing in contexts that emphasize obedience and reform. Meanwhile, its Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 suggests a stronger association with the life and teachings of Jesus, potentially through typological or theological connections that resonate with New Testament themes.
Biblical Context
In the Bible, Shimeon is explicitly mentioned in Ezra 10:31, a chapter that highlights the efforts of the Israelites to purify their community and reaffirm their covenant with God following their return from Babylonian exile. Shimeon's decision to divorce his foreign wife is part of a broader narrative addressing the need for cultural and religious separation to maintain the sanctity of the Israelite identity. This act, while controversial by modern standards, underscores the biblical emphasis on obedience and the willingness to make personal sacrifices for spiritual renewal. The name's singular appearance in scripture, tied to this specific historical moment, lends it a unique narrative significance.
Divine Proximity Metrics
Biblical References
- Ezra 10:31