Nemuel is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the sons of Simeon, who was the second son of Jacob and Leah. The name "Nemuel" is believed to mean "Day of God" or "God's Day," reflecting the theophoric nature of many Hebrew names, which often include references to God.

Biblical References:

Nemuel is first mentioned in the Book of Numbers, where he is listed among the sons of Simeon. In Numbers 26:12 , the genealogy of the tribe of Simeon is recorded: "The descendants of Simeon by their clans were: The Nemuelite clan from Nemuel, the Jaminite clan from Jamin, the Jakinite clan from Jakin." This passage highlights Nemuel as the progenitor of the Nemuelite clan, one of the families that made up the tribe of Simeon.

Tribal Significance:

The tribe of Simeon, to which Nemuel belonged, was one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Simeon was known for its close association with the tribe of Judah, as their territories were intertwined in the southern part of the Promised Land. The tribe of Simeon played a significant role in the early history of Israel, although it eventually became less prominent compared to other tribes.

Historical Context:

The period during which Nemuel lived was marked by the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, a time of significant transition and formation for the nation of Israel. The census recorded in Numbers 26 was conducted during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings, as they prepared to enter Canaan. This census was crucial for organizing the tribes and distributing the land among them.

Theological Implications:

Nemuel's inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative. The genealogies serve not only as historical records but also as theological affirmations of God's promises to the patriarchs. Each name in these lists represents a link in the chain of God's covenantal faithfulness to His people.

Cultural and Religious Impact:

In the broader cultural and religious context, the mention of Nemuel and his descendants reflects the emphasis on family and tribal identity in ancient Israelite society. The tribal system was central to the social, political, and religious life of the Israelites, with each tribe contributing to the collective identity of the nation.

Conclusion:

While Nemuel himself is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his role as a progenitor of one of the clans of Simeon highlights the interconnectedness of the tribes and the fulfillment of God's promises to the descendants of Jacob. Through Nemuel and others, the biblical text weaves a tapestry of faith, heritage, and divine purpose that continues to resonate throughout the Scriptures.Numbers 26:12
The sons of Simeon after their families: of Nemuel, the family of the Nemuelites: of Jamin, the family of the Jaminites: of Jachin, the family of the Jachinites:
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 4:24
The sons of Simeon were, Nemuel, and Jamin, Jarib, Zerah, and Shaul:
Nave's Topical Index

Chapter xlvi
... and I Chron. ppears as "Nemuel." "Jachin" has the parallel form in Chron. ... Of Simeon
it is specifically asserted that Shaul, his son, was begotten of a ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlvi.htm

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus