1 Chronicles 4:27

Shimei had sixteen sons and six daughters, but his brothers did not have many children, so their whole clan did not become as numerous as the sons of Judah.

Study Bible

Shimei had sixteen sons and six daughters
The name "Shimei" is derived from the Hebrew root "שמע" (shama), meaning "to hear" or "to be heard." This name suggests a person who is attentive to God or one whose prayers are heard by God. The mention of "sixteen sons and six daughters" indicates a significant family size, which in ancient Israelite culture was often seen as a sign of divine blessing and favor. Large families were considered a source of strength and prosperity, reflecting God's promise to Abraham about his descendants being as numerous as the stars (Genesis 15:5). This phrase highlights the importance of family lineage and the continuation of one's name and heritage in biblical times.

but his brothers did not have many children
The contrast here between Shimei and his brothers underscores the variability of divine blessing and the mysterious ways in which God chooses to bestow His favor. In the Hebrew culture, having many children was not only a blessing but also a necessity for survival and legacy. The phrase suggests a divine providence that is selective, reminding readers that God's plans and purposes are beyond human understanding. It also serves as a reminder of the sovereignty of God in determining the growth and prosperity of families and tribes.

so their entire line did not become as numerous as the sons of Judah
This phrase places the narrative within the larger context of the tribes of Israel. The "sons of Judah" were known for their prominence and numerical strength, fulfilling Jacob's blessing in Genesis 49:8-12, where Judah is described as a leader among his brothers. The comparison to Judah highlights the fulfillment of God's promises to the tribe of Judah, from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ would come. This serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through history. The phrase also emphasizes the theme of divine election and the special role of Judah in the biblical narrative, pointing to the messianic hope that is central to the Christian faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shimei
A descendant of Simeon, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Shimei is noted for having a relatively large family compared to his brothers.

2. Sons of Judah
The tribe of Judah is highlighted as being more numerous than the descendants of Simeon, indicating a significant difference in the growth and influence of these tribes.

3. Simeon
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Simeon, the second son of Jacob and Leah. The tribe of Simeon is noted for its smaller size in this passage.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Growth and Influence
The passage highlights God's sovereign plan in determining the growth and influence of different tribes and families. It reminds us that God has a unique plan for each of us, and our worth is not determined by numbers or size.

Faithfulness Over Numbers
While the tribe of Simeon was smaller, the focus should be on faithfulness to God's calling rather than numerical strength. This teaches us to value spiritual growth and obedience over worldly measures of success.

Legacy and Impact
Shimei's relatively large family within a smaller tribe suggests that individual families can still have a significant impact. We are encouraged to focus on the legacy we leave through our faith and actions.

Comparison and Contentment
The comparison between Simeon and Judah serves as a reminder to avoid unhealthy comparisons in our own lives. We should find contentment in God's provision and purpose for us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the size of Shimei's family compare to the rest of the tribe of Simeon, and what might this indicate about God's plans for individuals within a community?

2. In what ways does the prophecy about Simeon in Genesis 49 relate to the description of the tribe in 1 Chronicles 4:27?

3. How can we apply the lesson of faithfulness over numbers in our personal and church lives today?

4. What does the comparison between the tribes of Simeon and Judah teach us about God's distribution of gifts and responsibilities among His people?

5. How can we find contentment in our own circumstances, avoiding the trap of comparing ourselves to others, as seen in the contrast between Simeon and Judah?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:5-7
Jacob's prophecy about Simeon and Levi, where he speaks of their dispersion and lack of prominence among the tribes, which connects to the smaller size of Simeon's descendants.

Numbers 26:14
The census of the tribes of Israel, where the tribe of Simeon is recorded as having a smaller population compared to other tribes, reinforcing the theme of their limited growth.

1 Chronicles 5:1-2
The prominence of the tribe of Judah is highlighted, which connects to the comparison made in 1 Chronicles 4:27 regarding the size and influence of Judah versus Simeon.