### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Símōn**, represented by `{{G4613}}`, is a name of Hebrew origin meaning Simon. It appears **75 times** across **70 unique verses** in the Bible and is the name given to nine different Israelites, highlighting its commonality during the period.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4613}}` is most famously associated with **Simon** Peter, a **fisher** [[Matthew 4:18]] who was one of the first apostles called by Jesus [[Matthew 10:2]]. He is identified as the son of Jona [[John 1:42]] and is a central figure among the disciples. The name is also given to other significant individuals, including **Simon** Zelotes, another of the twelve apostles [[Acts 1:13]]; **Simon**, the brother of Jesus [[Mark 6:3]]; **Simon** the leper, in whose house Jesus dined [[Matthew 26:6]]; **Simon** of Cyrene, who was compelled to bear the cross [[Matthew 27:32]]; and **Simon** the sorcerer, who practiced magic in Samaria [[Acts 8:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words are closely associated with the most prominent Simon, Simon Peter, defining his identity and role:
* `{{G4074}}` **Pétros** (Peter, rock): This is the new name given to Simon by Jesus, signifying his foundational role [[Matthew 10:2]]. Jesus states, "Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone" [[John 1:42]].
* `{{G2786}}` **Kēphâs** (Cephas): The Aramaic surname for Peter, meaning "the Rock," which Jesus bestows upon Simon [[John 1:42]].
* `{{G231}}` **halieús** (fisher): This describes Simon Peter's profession before he was called by Jesus. He and his brother Andrew were **fishers** casting a net into the sea [[Mark 1:16]].
* `{{G1006}}` **bóskō** (feed, keep): This verb is central to the commission Jesus gives to the restored Simon Peter, telling him to **feed** His lambs and sheep ([[John 21:15]], [[John 21:17]]).
### Theological Significance
The name `{{G4613}}` carries significant weight, primarily through the life of Simon Peter, illustrating key theological concepts:
* **Confession and New Identity:** Simon Peter is the one who declares, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God" [[Matthew 16:16]]. In response, Jesus calls him blessed and affirms his new name, linking his identity to a foundational truth of the faith [[Matthew 16:17]].
* **From Fisher to Shepherd:** Jesus transforms Simon's identity from a **fisher** `{{G231}}` of fish to one who will **catch** `{{G2221}}` men [[Luke 5:10]]. This is fulfilled after the resurrection when Jesus commands Simon Peter to **feed** `{{G1006}}` His sheep, establishing his pastoral role [[John 21:17]].
* **Spiritual Warfare and Redemption:** Simon is directly targeted by Satan, with Jesus warning him, "Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat" [[Luke 22:31]]. Despite this spiritual conflict and his own failings, such as when he declares himself a "sinful man" [[Luke 5:8]], he is personally restored by Jesus.
* **A Spectrum of Humanity:** The various individuals named Simon represent a range of human responses to Jesus. This includes Simon the sorcerer, who tried to buy spiritual power [[Acts 8:18]], and Simon of Cyrene, who shared in Christ's suffering by carrying the cross [[Luke 23:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4613}}` **Símōn** is more than a common name; it is a lens through which to view discipleship, failure, and divine purpose. While attached to several figures, its story is dominated by Simon Peter, whose journey from a common **fisher** `{{G231}}` to **Peter** `{{G4074}}`, the rock, is a cornerstone of the gospel narrative. His life demonstrates the power of a divine call to transform a flawed but faithful individual into a foundational leader. The presence of other Simons, from a sorcerer to a cross-bearer, broadens the name's scope to represent the diverse ways humanity interacts with the person of Christ.
TRV