Reference: Shimei, Shimeites
Hastings
Shimei was a popular name among the Hebrews, being especially common in Levitical circles. Of most of the persons bearing it, absolutely nothing except the name is known. 1. The personage of this designation, of whom the historian has given us some details, is a Benjamite of the clan of Saul. On account of his tribal and family connexions, it is quite natural for him to be David's bitter enemy. As the latter is fleeing before Absalom, Shimei meets him and heaps curses and insults on the fugitive monarch. David's triumphant return, however, brings him in abject penitence to the feet of his sovereign, who pardons him (2Sa 16:5 ff; 2Sa 19:17 ff.). Nevertheless, David in his dying charge is represented as enjoining Solomon to 'bring his hoar head to Sheol with blood.' After this Shimei is not permitted to go beyond the walls of Jerusalem on pain of death; but presuming three years later to go to Gath in quest of fugitive slaves, he is executed by Benaiah at the command of the king (1Ki 2:8 ff., 1Ki 2:36 ff.). 2. In the court intrigues connected with the royal succession, a courtier, Shimei (cf. art. Rei) by name, espoused the cause of Solomon (1Ki 1:8). The official at the head of one of the prefectures which were erected by this monarch, is probably identical with him (1Ki 4:18). 3. A master of the vineyards under David (1Ch 27:27). 4. A prince of the Jud