Genesis 46:10

The sons of Simeon: Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jachin, Zohar, and Shaul the son of a Canaanite woman.

Study Bible

The sons of Simeon
This phrase introduces the descendants of Simeon, the second son of Jacob and Leah. Simeon's lineage is significant in the context of the tribes of Israel. Historically, the tribe of Simeon was known for its fierce and sometimes violent nature, as seen in the account of Dinah in Genesis 34. The listing of Simeon's sons here underscores the continuity of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to make them a great nation. Each name represents a branch of the family tree that would contribute to the fulfillment of this divine promise.

Jemuel
The name Jemuel can be translated to mean "Day of God" or "God is Light." This name reflects the Hebrew tradition of naming children with meanings that convey spiritual truths or aspirations. In the context of Simeon's family, Jemuel's name may symbolize a hope for divine guidance and enlightenment, a reminder of God's presence and oversight in the lives of His people.

Jamin
Jamin means "Right Hand" or "South." In biblical symbolism, the right hand often represents strength, power, and favor. This name could imply a position of strength or a favored status within the family. It also reflects the geographical orientation of the tribes, as the tribe of Simeon was located in the southern part of the land of Israel.

Ohad
The name Ohad means "Unity" or "Powerful." This name may suggest a desire for cohesion and strength within the family or tribe. Unity was crucial for the survival and success of the Israelites, especially during their journey to Egypt and later in the Promised Land. Ohad's name serves as a reminder of the importance of solidarity among God's people.

Jachin
Jachin means "He Establishes" or "He Will Establish." This name is prophetic, pointing to God's role in establishing the nation of Israel. It reflects the belief that God is the one who sets the foundations and ensures the stability of His people. Jachin's name is a testament to the faith that God would fulfill His promises to the descendants of Jacob.

Zohar
Zohar means "Brightness" or "Splendor." This name conveys a sense of radiance and glory, perhaps reflecting the hope that Simeon's descendants would shine brightly among the nations. It is a reminder of the calling of Israel to be a light to the Gentiles, a theme that runs throughout the Old Testament.

Shaul the son of a Canaanite woman
Shaul's designation as the son of a Canaanite woman is noteworthy. It highlights the intermingling of the Israelites with the surrounding peoples, which was often discouraged due to the potential for idolatry and cultural assimilation. This detail serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining their distinct identity and faithfulness to God amidst a diverse and often hostile environment. It also foreshadows the complex relationships between Israel and the Canaanites throughout biblical history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Simeon
The second son of Jacob and Leah, Simeon is one of the twelve tribes of Israel. His descendants are listed in this verse as part of the family moving to Egypt.

2. Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jachin, Zohar, and Shaul
These are the sons of Simeon. Each name represents a lineage within the tribe of Simeon.

3. Shaul, the son of a Canaanite woman
This detail highlights the intermarriage between Israelites and Canaanites, which was significant in the context of Israelite identity and covenant faithfulness.

4. Canaanite Woman
The mention of Shaul's mother being a Canaanite woman underscores the cultural and religious interactions between the Israelites and the Canaanites.

5. Egypt
The destination of Jacob's family, where they would eventually become a great nation, fulfilling part of God's promise to Abraham.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Family Lineage
The inclusion of Shaul, the son of a Canaanite woman, reminds us of the importance of maintaining faithfulness to God within our family lines, even amidst cultural pressures.

God's Sovereignty in Family Dynamics
Despite the complexities and imperfections in family histories, God works through them to fulfill His purposes, as seen in the growth of Jacob's family.

Cultural Interactions and Faith
The mention of a Canaanite woman in the lineage of Simeon highlights the challenges and opportunities of cultural interactions. Believers are called to engage with the world while maintaining their distinct identity in Christ.

Legacy and Influence
Each name listed represents a legacy. Our actions and decisions impact future generations, calling us to live with intentionality and faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the inclusion of Shaul, the son of a Canaanite woman, challenge or affirm your understanding of God's work through diverse family backgrounds?

2. In what ways can the account of Simeon's family encourage us to remain faithful to God amidst cultural pressures?

3. How does the movement of Jacob's family to Egypt demonstrate God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His promises?

4. Reflect on a time when your family history or background has influenced your faith journey. How can you see God's hand at work in it?

5. Considering the broader account of Israel's history, how does this passage encourage you to trust in God's long-term plans for your life and family?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 34
The account of Dinah and Shechem provides background on Simeon's character and his actions against the Canaanites, which may offer insight into the significance of his son Shaul being born to a Canaanite woman.

Exodus 1
The growth of Jacob's family in Egypt sets the stage for the eventual enslavement and the Exodus, showing the fulfillment of God's promise to make Israel a great nation.

Numbers 25
The incident at Peor, where Israelites intermarried with Moabites, parallels the theme of intermarriage and its implications for Israel's faithfulness to God.