שְׁלֻמִיאֵל

Shelumiel, an Israelite

Definition

Shelumiel is a proper name meaning 'peace of God' or 'God is my peace.' He is identified as the son of Zurishaddai and the leader of the tribe of Simeon during the wilderness wanderings (Numbers 1:6). His role is consistently administrative and military, representing his tribe in census counts (Numbers 1:6), camp organization (Numbers 2:12), and as the head of his tribe's delegation for offerings at the dedication of the altar (Numbers 7:36, 41). The name itself, a compound of 'peace' and 'God,' reflects a hopeful, covenantal identity for an Israelite leader.

Biblical Usage

The name Shelumiel appears exclusively in the book of Numbers, specifically in administrative and ritual contexts related to the organization of the Israelite camp. He is listed among the tribal leaders appointed by Moses (Numbers 1:4-16). His name is recorded in the census (Numbers 1:6), in the arrangement of the camp around the Tabernacle (Numbers 2:12), and twice in the detailed account of the leaders' offerings for the altar dedication (Numbers 7:36, 41). This pattern shows his official, representative role for the tribe of Simeon.

Etymology

The name Shelumiel (שְׁלֻמִיאֵל) is a compound of two Hebrew elements: 'shalom' (שָׁלוֹם, H7965), meaning 'peace, wholeness, completeness,' and 'El' (אֵל, H410), one of the primary names for God. It is a theophoric name, a common practice where a divine name ('El') is incorporated. The construction can be understood as 'peace of God' or 'God is my peace,' expressing a relationship or gift from the deity. Similar name constructions include Nathaniel ('gift of God') and Israel ('he strives with God').

Semantic Range

While Shelumiel is a personal name, its meaning—'peace of God'—connects to the central biblical theme of shalom, which signifies holistic well-being, right relationship, and covenant fulfillment from God. As a leader during the wilderness period, his name serves as a reminder that true peace and societal order for Israel were founded on their relationship with Yahweh. Understanding the name highlights how individuals in the biblical narrative often bore names that reflected core theological truths about God's character and promises to His people.

In ancient Israelite culture, names were deeply significant, often describing character, destiny, or a circumstance of birth. Theophoric names like Shelumiel, which include a divine element ('El'), were declarations of faith and identity, publicly affiliating the person with the God of Israel. His role as a tribal leader (Numbers 1:4) was one of honor and responsibility, involving military command, judicial authority, and representation before Moses and the Tabernacle. This contrasts with modern names, which are often chosen for sound or family tradition rather than explicit meaning.

Shelomi (שְׁלֹמִי, H8015) — A shorter name also derived from 'shalom,' meaning 'my peace' or 'peaceful.' It is the name of an Asherite leader (Numbers 34:27).

Word Details

Scripture References