Exodus 6:15

The sons of Simeon were Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jachin, Zohar, and Shaul, the son of a Canaanite woman. These were the clans of Simeon.

Study Bible

The sons of Simeon
This phrase introduces the descendants of Simeon, the second son of Jacob and Leah. Simeon's lineage is significant in the context of the twelve tribes of Israel. Historically, the tribe of Simeon was known for its fierce and warrior-like nature, as seen in the account of Dinah's avenging in Genesis 34. The mention of Simeon's sons here serves to establish the genealogical record of the Israelites, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham to make his descendants numerous.

Jemuel
The name Jemuel, meaning "Day of God" or "God's Day," reflects the Hebrew tradition of naming children with meanings that convey spiritual or prophetic significance. This name may suggest a hope or prayer for divine favor and guidance in the life of the individual and the tribe.

Jamin
Jamin, meaning "Right Hand" or "South," could symbolize strength and favor, as the right hand is often associated with power and authority in biblical texts. This name might indicate a position of honor or a role of leadership within the tribe.

Ohad
The name Ohad, meaning "Unity" or "Powerful," suggests a sense of cohesion and strength. In the context of the tribe of Simeon, this could imply the importance of unity among the descendants and their collective strength as a tribe.

Jachin
Jachin, meaning "He Will Establish," is a name that conveys stability and foundation. This name is later associated with one of the pillars of Solomon's Temple, symbolizing strength and permanence. It reflects the hope that the tribe of Simeon would be firmly established within the nation of Israel.

Zohar
The name Zohar, meaning "Brightness" or "Splendor," suggests a sense of radiance and glory. This could symbolize the tribe's potential to shine brightly among the other tribes, reflecting God's glory and favor.

Shaul the son of a Canaanite woman
This phrase highlights a unique aspect of Simeon's lineage, as Shaul is noted to be the son of a Canaanite woman. This detail may indicate a blending of cultures and peoples, which was not uncommon in the ancient Near East. It also serves as a reminder of the Israelites' interactions with surrounding nations and the complexities of maintaining their distinct identity.

These were the clans of Simeon
This concluding phrase emphasizes the organization and structure within the tribe of Simeon. The term "clans" indicates sub-groups or family units within the tribe, each with its own leadership and responsibilities. This structure was essential for maintaining order and fulfilling the roles assigned to each tribe within the larger community of Israel. The mention of these clans underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to multiply the descendants of Jacob and establish them as a great nation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Simeon
The second son of Jacob and Leah, Simeon is one of the twelve tribes of Israel. His descendants are listed here, emphasizing the continuity of God's promise to Abraham through his lineage.

2. Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jachin, Zohar, and Shaul
These are the sons of Simeon. Each name represents a family line within the tribe of Simeon, highlighting the growth and expansion of the Israelite people.

3. Shaul, the son of a Canaanite woman
This detail is significant as it indicates intermarriage with the Canaanites, which was generally discouraged among the Israelites. It reflects the complexities and challenges of maintaining cultural and religious identity.

4. Clans of Simeon
The mention of clans underscores the tribal structure of Israel, which was crucial for maintaining order and identity among the Israelites.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Genealogy
Genealogies in the Bible serve to connect God's promises to specific people and tribes, showing His faithfulness across generations.

Cultural and Religious Identity
The mention of Shaul's Canaanite mother highlights the tension between maintaining a distinct religious identity and the realities of living among other cultures.

God's Sovereignty in Family Lines
Despite human actions and decisions, God's purposes are fulfilled through family lines, as seen in the continuation of the tribe of Simeon.

Intermarriage and Its Implications
The inclusion of a Canaanite woman in the genealogy prompts reflection on the challenges of intermarriage and the call to remain faithful to God's commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the genealogy of Simeon in Exodus 6:15 reflect God's faithfulness to His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob?

2. What can we learn from the inclusion of Shaul, the son of a Canaanite woman, about the challenges of maintaining a distinct cultural and religious identity?

3. How do the genealogies in Exodus 6:15 and other parts of the Bible help us understand the importance of family and heritage in God's plan?

4. In what ways can the tribal structure of Israel, as seen in the clans of Simeon, inform our understanding of community and belonging in the church today?

5. How can we apply the lessons from the intermarriage mentioned in this passage to our own lives, particularly in maintaining our faith and values in a diverse society?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 46:10
This verse also lists the sons of Simeon, providing a parallel account that helps confirm the genealogical record.

Numbers 26:12-14
This passage provides a census of the tribe of Simeon, showing their numbers and the impact of their actions on their population.

1 Chronicles 4:24-27
Chronicles offers another genealogical account, emphasizing the historical continuity and significance of the tribe of Simeon.