Who was Shimi?

Shimi (Hebrew: שִׁמְעִי, Shimʿî, meaning “famous” or “renowned”) is listed in Exodus 6:17 (not Exodus 7) as one of the sons of Gershon, the eldest son of Levi. Shimi is therefore a member of the Levitical tribe and part of the ancestral line responsible for tabernacle service and priestly functions in Israel.

Though the biblical references to Shimi are brief, his inclusion in the genealogies of the Levites connects him to the sacred duties assigned to the tribe of Levi. His name also appears in Numbers 3:18 and 1 Chronicles 6:17 (6:2 in some translations), where the descendants of Levi are detailed.

Biblical References and Cross-References

• Exodus 6:17 – “The sons of Gershon: Libni and Shimi, by their clans.”

• Numbers 3:18 – “These were the names of the sons of Gershon by their clans: Libni and Shimei.”

• 1 Chronicles 6:17 – “And these are the names of the sons of Gershon: Libni and Shimei.”

• See also: 1 Chronicles 23:7, 9, 10, where Shimi’s lineage and his role in temple service are expanded.

Although the name “Shimi” (or “Shimei” depending on the translation) occurs for multiple individuals in the Old Testament, the Shimi mentioned in Exodus 6:17 is specifically the son of Gershon.

Shimi’s Role in the Bible

Shimi is listed as a son of Gershon, who was a son of Levi, the patriarch of the tribe designated for the service of the tabernacle and, later, the temple. While no individual acts or events are described about Shimi himself, his role is understood through the functions of his clan.

The Gershonites, the descendants of Gershon (including Shimi), were charged with transporting and caring for the tabernacle’s curtains, coverings, and ropes during Israel’s wilderness journey (Numbers 3:25-26; 4:24-28). Their duties were essential to the orderly and reverent worship of God in the tabernacle.

Meaning for Today’s Christians

Shimi’s inclusion in the biblical genealogies reminds believers that every person in God’s covenant community has a purpose, even when not much is written about them. His role, while quiet, was necessary for the worship life of Israel. Christians today can see in Shimi a picture of faithful, behind-the-scenes service—humble but indispensable.

In the New Testament, the concept of the priesthood of all believers (1 Peter 2:9) reflects this principle: even the unnoticed acts of service are seen and valued by God. Just as Shimi’s descendants were essential to the worship structure of Israel, so every believer has a part to play in the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

How Shimi’s Line Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Shimi’s Levitical lineage connects him, indirectly, to the Old Covenant system of priesthood and tabernacle worship. This system was a shadow of the greater priesthood that would come through Christ (Hebrews 8:5; 10:1). Though Shimi did not serve as a high priest, his family’s role pointed forward to Jesus, the true and perfect High Priest (Hebrews 4:14–16).

The duties performed by the Gershonites in protecting and maintaining the sacred elements of worship point to the holiness of God and the need for mediation. In Christ, the separation between God and man is removed. Christ fulfills what the tabernacle and priesthood only symbolized.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. God’s Sovereignty in Assigning Roles

The Levites didn’t choose their role; God appointed them. Shimi’s place in the genealogy illustrates God’s intentionality in calling and equipping His people for service. This theme echoes throughout Scripture—God places people where they are for His glory and purpose (Acts 17:26).

2. The Value of Hidden Faithfulness

Though Shimi is not a major biblical character, his faithful presence in the covenant line is a testament to God’s use of ordinary people. Faithfulness in the small things—like maintaining the tabernacle’s curtains—has eternal significance (Luke 16:10).

3. Foreshadowing of Christ’s Ministry

The Levitical priesthood and its infrastructure pointed forward to the coming of Christ. Jesus fulfilled every ceremonial function by becoming both the perfect sacrifice and the eternal priest.

Reflection Questions

1. How does Shimi’s quiet role in the tabernacle service encourage you in your own unnoticed acts of service?

2. What does Shimi’s inclusion in the genealogy teach us about God’s value for every individual in His plan?

3. In what ways does understanding the Old Testament priestly system deepen your appreciation for Jesus as your High Priest?

4. How can you faithfully serve the Lord even if your role is not prominent or public?

5. What can we learn from the organization and obedience of the Levites, including Shimi’s clan, about how we should approach worship today?

Though Shimi may not stand out in biblical history, his role in the sacred line of worship reminds us that God sees, uses, and honors those who serve faithfully, no matter how small their role may appear.