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שִׁמְעָה (shim.ah)

shim.ah

Shimeah

H8093 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 3 verses

N:N-M-P

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
3 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
N:N-M-P

Word Overview

Shimeah is a personal name appearing in the genealogies of the tribe of Judah, primarily recorded in 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel. He is identified as the third son of Jesse and thus a brother of King David. The sources note that this individual is known by several variations in translation: Shammah in the earlier accounts of his youth (1 Samuel 16:9; 17:13), Shimea in later historical records (2 Samuel 21:21; 1 Chronicles 2:13), and Shimeah in the specific Strong’s entry.

The name itself carries the meaning "fame" or "hearing." Its occurrence is limited to these three verses, serving mainly to anchor David’s family lineage. The variation in spelling across the biblical text reflects common transliteration differences rather than distinct individuals, as all references point to the same brother of David who fathered Jonadab.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Shimeah appears in the family records of Judah, marking a specific place in the lineage that led to King David. While genealogies can sometimes feel distant or dry, they remind us that God works through real people and their histories. This name, meaning 'fame' or 'hearing,' connects us to the broader story of Israel’s kings and the families around them.

In these verses, Shimeah is mentioned as David’s brother, linking him to pivotal moments in biblical history. His son Jonadab appears during a time of family conflict, showing how even those on the sidelines were part of God’s unfolding plan. These records help us see that every name has value and that God remembers each person in His narrative.

When we read these accounts, we are invited to trust that God is faithful to His promises across generations. The details of family trees may seem small, but they point to the larger story of redemption. May you find comfort in knowing that your own life is part of God’s greater purpose, just as these names were preserved for our learning.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Shimeah3×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • שִׁמְעָ֖ה2×
  • שִׁמְעָ֨ה1×

Key Verses

  • II Samuel 13:3
    But Amnon had a friend whose name was Jonadab the son of Shimeah, David’s brother; and Jonadab was a very subtle man.

    This verse identifies Shimeah as David’s brother and Jonadab’s father, anchoring the name in a moment of family crisis that reveals human complexity.

  • II Samuel 13:32
    Jonadab the son of Shimeah, David’s brother, answered, “Don’t let my lord suppose that they have killed all the young men, the king’s sons, for Amnon only is dead; for by the appointment of Absalom this has been determined from the day that he forced his sister Tamar.

    Here Jonadab speaks directly to David, showing how Shimeah’s lineage was involved in the political and emotional turmoil following Amnon’s death.

  • II Samuel 21:21
    When he defied Israel, Jonathan the son of Shimei, David’s brother, killed him.

    This reference links Shimeah to a later generation through Jonathan, his grandson, who defeats a Philistine giant, showing the lasting impact of David’s family line.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Shimeah mean?

The name Shimeah comes from the Hebrew root meaning 'hearing' or 'fame.' It appears in genealogies to identify members of David’s family, reflecting how names often carried meaningful descriptions in ancient Israel.

Is Shimeah the same person as Shammah or Shimea?

Yes, these are different transliterations of the same individual. The variations arise from how Hebrew names were rendered into Greek and later English translations, but all references point to David’s brother.

Why is Shimeah mentioned in these specific verses?

Shimeah is mentioned to establish family connections during key events: Jonadab’s counsel after Amnon’s death and Jonathan’s victory over a Philistine. These references help trace David’s lineage and its role in biblical history.

Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)

II Samuel 3 verses
II Samuel 13:3

But Amnon had a friend whose name was Jonadab the son of Shimeah, David’s brother; and Jonadab was a very subtle man.

II Samuel 13:32

Jonadab the son of Shimeah, David’s brother, answered, “Don’t let my lord suppose that they have killed all the young…

II Samuel 21:21

When he defied Israel, Jonathan the son of Shimei, David’s brother, killed him.