### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
Semei (G4584) is a transliteration of the Hebrew proper noun Shimei (`{{H8096}}`). As a proper name, its primary semantic function is to identify a specific individual within a lineage. The Hebrew root of Shimei is *shama* (`{{H8085}}`), meaning "to hear" or "to listen." Thus, the name Shimei can be interpreted as "my renown" (from "my name is heard") or more commonly, "heard by Yahweh" or "one who hears/obeys." In the context of the New Testament, Semei refers exclusively to an ancestor of Jesus Christ.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The Greek form *Semei* (G4584) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically within the meticulously recorded genealogy of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Luke: "the son of Mattathias, the son of Amos, the son of Nahum, the son of Esli, the son of Naggai, the son of Maath, the son of Mattathias, the son of Semei" [[Luke 3:26]]. In this context, Semei is presented as an ancestor in the lineage tracing from Joseph back through the generations to Adam.
Luke's genealogy differs from Matthew's in several respects, most notably by tracing the lineage through Mary's side (or at least a different line) and extending back to Adam, rather than Abraham. The inclusion of Semei, along with numerous other figures whose individual lives are not detailed in Scripture, underscores the historical reality of Jesus' human ancestry. While no specific actions or events are attributed to this particular Semei in the biblical text, his presence is vital for establishing the continuous line leading to the Messiah.
The Hebrew counterpart, Shimei (`{{H8096}}`), is a relatively common name in the Old Testament, borne by several individuals. The most prominent is Shimei, the son of Gera, a Benjaminite who cursed King David during Absalom's rebellion [[2 Samuel 16:5-13]]. Later, Shimei sought pardon from David [[2 Samuel 19:16-23]] and was eventually executed by Solomon for disobedience [[1 Kings 2:36-46]]. While this Old Testament Shimei is a distinct person from the Semei in Luke's genealogy, his story illustrates the broader usage of the name and the varying fates of those who bore it.
### Related Words & Concepts
The direct Hebrew equivalent and origin of Semei is Shimei (`{{H8096}}`). This name is derived from the verbal root *shama* (`{{H8085}}`), which means "to hear," "to listen," "to obey," or "to understand." This root is foundational in biblical Hebrew, appearing in numerous significant words and concepts. Other related names that share this root include:
* Ishmael (`{{H3458}}`): "God hears"
* Samuel (`{{H8050}}`): "heard by God" or "name of God"
* Simon/Simeon (`{{G4613}}`, `{{H8095}}`): "one who hears" or "he has heard"
The concept of "hearing" in the biblical sense often extends beyond mere auditory perception to encompass obedience and understanding. Therefore, names derived from *shama* frequently carry connotations of divine attentiveness or human responsiveness to God's word.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Semei (G4584) lies primarily in his inclusion within the genealogy of Jesus Christ. This inclusion serves several crucial purposes:
1. **Affirmation of Humanity:** Semei's presence, like every name in the genealogy, affirms the genuine human descent of Jesus. It underscores the Incarnation, that God truly became flesh and dwelt among humanity, sharing in our historical reality.
2. **Continuity of God's Plan:** The meticulous listing of names demonstrates God's sovereign oversight and faithfulness in preserving the Messianic line throughout generations. Even figures of whom little is known played a part in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.
3. **Historical Foundation:** The genealogy provides a historical and verifiable foundation for the claims made about Jesus. It connects Him to the historical narrative of Israel, fulfilling prophecies concerning the Davidic line and the Seed of Abraham.
4. **Universal Scope:** Luke's genealogy, extending back to Adam, highlights the universal scope of Christ's redemptive work, not limited to Israel but encompassing all humanity. Semei, as a link in this chain, contributes to this broader theological message.
While the name *Shimei* itself, meaning "heard by Yahweh," could subtly allude to God's attentiveness to His covenant people and their lineage, the primary theological weight of Semei in the New Testament rests on his role as a necessary link in the unbroken chain leading to the Savior.
### Summary
Semei (G4584) is a transliteration of the Hebrew name Shimei (`{{H8096}}`), meaning "heard by Yahweh" or "my renown," derived from the root *shama* (`{{H8085}}`), "to hear." In the New Testament, Semei appears exclusively in [[Luke 3:26]], where he is listed as an ancestor of Jesus Christ in the genealogy tracing back to Adam. While no specific actions are recorded for this individual, his inclusion is theologically significant as it affirms the genuine humanity of Jesus, demonstrates God's meticulous preservation of the Messianic lineage, and provides a historical foundation for the Incarnation. Semei's role, though seemingly minor, is crucial in establishing the unbroken line that culminates in the person of Jesus, the Messiah.
TRV