Topical Bible: Falsehood of Shimei

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Introduction

The account of Shimei, a member of the tribe of Benjamin, is a significant narrative in the Old Testament that highlights themes of falsehood, repentance, and the complexities of human character. Shimei's actions and words are recorded primarily in the books of 2 Samuel and 1 Kings, where his interactions with King David and later with Solomon provide insight into his character and the consequences of deceit.

Biblical Account

Shimei first appears in the biblical narrative during the rebellion of Absalom against his father, King David. As David fled Jerusalem, Shimei, a relative of Saul, came out to curse him. The account in 2 Samuel 16:5-8 describes Shimei's actions: "As King David approached Bahurim, a man from the same clan as Saul’s family came out from there. His name was Shimei son of Gera, and he cursed as he came out. He pelted David and all the king’s officials with stones, though all the troops and the special guard were on David’s right and left. As he cursed, Shimei said, 'Get out, get out, you murderer, you scoundrel! The LORD has repaid you for all the blood you shed in the household of Saul, in whose place you have reigned. The LORD has given the kingdom into the hands of your son Absalom. You have come to ruin because you are a murderer!'"

Shimei's falsehood lies in his accusations against David, whom he blames for the downfall of Saul's house. His words are filled with malice and deceit, as he attributes David's misfortunes to divine retribution for crimes he did not commit. Shimei's actions are a stark example of how falsehood can be used to manipulate and harm others, especially in times of vulnerability.

David's Response

Despite the provocation, David's response to Shimei is marked by restraint and humility. In 2 Samuel 16:10-12 , David says, "What have I to do with you, you sons of Zeruiah? If he is cursing because the LORD said to him, ‘Curse David,’ who can ask, ‘Why do you do this?’” Then David said to Abishai and all his servants, “Behold, my own son, who came from my own body, seeks my life. How much more now this Benjamite! Leave him alone and let him curse, for the LORD has told him so. Perhaps the LORD will see my affliction and repay me with good for the cursing I receive today."

David's response reflects a deep trust in God's sovereignty and justice. He chooses to endure Shimei's falsehood, hoping that God will ultimately vindicate him. This episode underscores the importance of patience and faith in the face of false accusations.

Shimei's Repentance

After Absalom's rebellion is quashed and David returns to Jerusalem, Shimei seeks forgiveness. In 2 Samuel 19:18-20 , Shimei approaches David with a contrite heart: "They crossed at the ford to take the king’s household over and to do whatever he wished. When Shimei son of Gera crossed the Jordan, he fell prostrate before the king and said, 'May my lord not hold me guilty. Do not remember how your servant did wrong on the day my lord the king left Jerusalem. May the king put it out of his mind. For I, your servant, know that I have sinned, but today I have come here as the first of the whole house of Joseph to come down and meet my lord the king.'"

David, demonstrating mercy, spares Shimei's life, swearing an oath that he would not put him to death. This act of forgiveness highlights the potential for redemption and the power of repentance, even for those who have committed grave falsehoods.

Shimei's Fate

Despite his initial repentance, Shimei's account concludes with a reminder of the enduring consequences of deceit. In 1 Kings 2:8-9 , as David instructs Solomon before his death, he advises his son regarding Shimei: "And remember, you have with you Shimei son of Gera, the Benjamite from Bahurim, who called down bitter curses on me the day I went to Mahanaim. When he came down to meet me at the Jordan, I swore to him by the LORD: ‘I will never put you to death by the sword.’ But now, do not consider him innocent. You are a man of wisdom; you will know what to do to him. Bring his gray head down to the grave in blood."

Solomon eventually enforces justice upon Shimei when he violates the terms of his house arrest, leading to his execution (1 Kings 2:36-46). This outcome serves as a sobering reminder of the long-term impact of falsehood and the importance of genuine repentance and integrity.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 2:42,43
And the king sent and called for Shimei, and said to him, Did I not make you to swear by the LORD, and protested to you, saying, Know for a certain, on the day you go out, and walk abroad any where, that you shall surely die? and you said to me, The word that I have heard is good.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Life and Death of Mr. Badman,
... Thus Shimei cursed David; he sentenced him for and to evil unjustly, when he said
to him, 'Come out, come out, thou bloody man, and thou man of Belial. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the life and death of.htm

The Work of Jesus Christ as an Advocate,
... To plead about our afflictions for sins.-A simile of a man indicted at the assizes,
and his malicious adversary.-An allusion to Abishai and Shimei, who cursed ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the work of jesus christ.htm