Who was Shimri in the Bible?

Shimri was one of King David's mighty warriors, known for his bravery and loyalty. He is specifically listed as being from the tribe of Benjamin (1 Chronicles 11:45).

What is the significance of Shimri being a mighty warrior?

As one of David's mighty warriors, Shimri was part of an elite group that helped establish and secure David's kingdom. Their inclusion in the biblical record highlights God's faithfulness in raising up loyal and courageous men to support His anointed king.

Are there any stories about Shimri in the Bible?

No specific stories or key events about Shimri's life are recorded beyond his mention in the list of David's warriors. His significance lies in his inclusion in this honored group, which is documented in 1 Chronicles 11:26-47.

Shimri

Old TestamentDivided MonarchyMaleDavid's warrior

Shimri was one of David's mighty warriors from the tribe of Benjamin.

Shimri

Biography

Shimri was one of the Benjamite warriors who defected from Saul's forces to join David at Ziklag, listed among David's mighty men in 1 Chronicles 12. These warriors were described as being able to shoot arrows or sling stones with either hand, making them elite fighters who recognized David's anointing and chose to align themselves with him during his period of exile. The defection of Benjamites, members of Saul's own tribe, to David is presented by the Chronicler as evidence of divine favor and momentum building around David's eventual kingship. Shimri's specific mention by name within this distinguished company marks him as a recognized figure among David's early supporters and military companions.

Significance

Shimri the Benjamite warrior represents the growing movement of loyal supporters who gathered around David before he became king, a dynamic the biblical text presents as reflecting divine election at work. That Benjamites would cross tribal lines to join their king-in-waiting is particularly significant, illustrating that God's purposes could override even the strongest tribal loyalties. Theologically, Shimri and his companions foreshadow the universal scope of the Davidic kingdom, which drew diverse peoples into a unified covenant community under the Lord's anointed. Their faithfulness during David's time of hardship reflects the biblical virtue of loyalty to God's chosen, even when circumstances seem to argue against it.

Verse Appearances (1)

1Chr

1Chr 11:45

References

Orr, J. (ed.) (1915) The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. Chicago: Howard-Severance Company. [Public Domain]
Tyndale House, Cambridge (n.d.) Translators Individualised Proper Names with all References (TIPNR). STEPBible. Available at: https://www.stepbible.org. [CC BY 4.0]
Wikidata contributors (n.d.) Wikidata. Available at: https://www.wikidata.org. [CC0]
Church of England (1769) The Holy Bible, Authorized (King James) Version. [Public Domain]

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