Συμεών (Sumeōn)
Sumeōn
Simeon
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 7 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Symeon, derived from a Hebrew root meaning "he has heard," appears seven times in the New Testament. It serves as a distinct variant of Simon, preserving the older Hebrew pronunciation in specific contexts rather than using the more common Greek form Σίμων. This linguistic choice signals a deliberate connection to Jewish heritage and tradition.
Four notable figures bear this name in Scripture. The first is Simeon, the second son of Jacob, mentioned in Revelation 7:7 as part of the twelve tribes of Israel. He also appears in Luke’s genealogy of Jesus as an ancestor (Luke 3:30). In the Temple narrative, an aged worshipper named Symeon recognizes the infant Jesus, a moment that highlights his role as a devout observer of God’s promises (Luke 2:25, 34). Finally, Symeon Niger is listed among the prophets and teachers in Antioch (Acts 13:1), and Peter is referred to by this name in Acts 15:14 and 2 Peter 1:1, emphasizing his Jewish identity before his apostolic mission.
Translators typically render Symeon as Simeon or Simon depending on the passage. The variation reflects how early Christians navigated between Hebrew roots and Greek usage. By retaining this form, the text underscores the continuity between the Old Testament promises and their fulfillment in the New Covenant community.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Simeon carries a quiet weight in Scripture, rooted in the Hebrew idea of one who has been heard by God. This linguistic thread connects several distinct figures across the biblical narrative, from the tribes of Israel to the early church. It reminds us that our names and histories are not random; they are woven into a larger story of divine attention.
In Luke’s gospel, an elderly man named Simeon waits in Jerusalem with hope for the comfort of Israel. When he holds the infant Jesus, his prayer shows how God answers the longings of those who watch and wait. This moment encourages us that God hears the faithful prayers of His people, even when the answer comes in ways we do not expect.
Whether appearing in genealogies or as a leader in Antioch, this name signals continuity between the old promises and their fulfillment in Christ. It invites us to trust that our lives, too, are heard and held by God, contributing to His work in ways that may only become clear in time.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Simeon4×
- of Simeon2×
- Simon1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Συμεὼν7×
Key Verses
-
Luke 2:25
Behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.
This verse introduces Simeon as a devout man upon whom the Holy Spirit rested, establishing his role as a witness to God's faithfulness.
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Luke 2:34
Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary, his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which is spoken against.
Here Simeon prophesies about Jesus, revealing that the Messiah would bring both salvation and division, fulfilling his vision of Israel's consolation.
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Acts 15:14
Simeon has reported how God first visited the nations to take out of them a people for his name.
Peter uses this name to highlight his Jewish identity when explaining how God opened the door for Gentiles to join the people of God.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Simeon mean?
Why is the name spelled differently in some verses?
Who are the different people named Simeon in the Bible?
Every Occurrence (7 verses across 4 books)
Luke 3 verses
Behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking for the…
Luke 2:34Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary, his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the falling and the rising of…
Luke 3:30the son of Simeon, the son of Judah, the son of Joseph, the son of Jonan, the son of Eliakim,