### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shimʻîy**, represented by `{{H8096}}`, is a proper name derived from a root meaning **famous**. It is the name given to approximately twenty different Israelites in the scriptures, appearing 43 times across 39 unique verses. The name is also rendered as Shimi and Shimhi.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The most prominent individual named **Shimei** `{{H8096}}` in the biblical narrative is the son of Gera, a Benjamite from the house of Saul [[2 Samuel 16:5]]. He is introduced cursing King David and throwing stones at him as the king fled Jerusalem [[2 Samuel 16:13]]. When David returned to power, **Shimei** `{{H8096}}` pleaded for his life, and David swore an oath not to kill him ([[2 Samuel 19:18]], [[2 Samuel 19:23]]). However, David later instructed his son Solomon to not hold him guiltless [[1 Kings 2:8]]. Solomon confined **Shimei** `{{H8096}}` to Jerusalem but later had him executed when he violated this command, returning the wickedness he had shown David upon his own head ([[1 Kings 2:36]], [[1 Kings 2:44]]). Other notable individuals named **Shimei** `{{H8096}}` include one of David's mighty men who remained loyal during Adonijah's coup attempt [[1 Kings 1:8]] and an ancestor of Mordecai [[Esther 2:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the identity and actions of individuals named **Shimei** `{{H8096}}`:
* `{{H8034}}` **shêm** (an appellation, as amark or memorial of individuality): This word forms the root of **Shimʻîy** `{{H8096}}`, connecting the name to the idea of renown, fame, or reputation.
* `{{H7043}}` **qâlal** (to be light, vile, curse): This verb describes the primary action for which Shimei son of Gera is known, as he **cursed** David with a grievous curse ([[2 Samuel 16:5]], [[1 Kings 2:8]]).
* `{{H1145}}` **Ben-yᵉmîynîy** (a Benjaminite, or descendent of Benjamin): This identifies the tribal loyalty of Shimei son of Gera, linking him to the deposed house of King Saul [[2 Samuel 19:16]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): The narrative of the most notable **Shimei** `{{H8096}}` is framed by his interactions with **king** David and the final judgment carried out by a new **king**, Solomon [[1 Kings 2:44]].
### Theological Significance
The name **Shimei** `{{H8096}}` is associated with several important narrative themes, primarily through the story of the son of Gera.
* **Political Loyalty and Consequences:** Shimei's curse against David represents the lingering allegiance to the house of Saul and the political turmoil of the era. His actions stemmed from his affiliation with the former king's family [[2 Samuel 16:5]].
* **Royal Mercy and Justice:** The story presents a contrast between David's mercy and Solomon's justice. David swore an oath to spare **Shimei** `{{H8096}}` [[2 Samuel 19:23]], but Solomon ultimately held him accountable for cursing the LORD's anointed [[2 Samuel 19:21]] and for breaking his own oath, ensuring justice was served [[1 Kings 2:44]].
* **The Power of Words:** The narrative underscores the lasting impact of words. David remembered Shimei’s "grievous curse" on his deathbed [[1 Kings 2:8]], and this curse was a key factor in his eventual execution under Solomon, demonstrating that words of rebellion against God's chosen leader carry heavy consequences.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H8096}}` **Shimʻîy** is a name shared by many Israelites, it is most memorably attached to Shimei, the son of Gera. His dramatic story of cursing, repentance, and eventual judgment provides a powerful illustration of political dissent, the tension between mercy and justice, and the enduring consequences of one's words and allegiances. Though the name means "famous," its most detailed scriptural account is tied to a figure whose fame is a complex legacy of rebellion and reckoning.
TRV