Simeon Called Niger

Biblical Record

Acts 13:1 lists five men as the "prophets and teachers" in the church at Antioch: Barnabas, Simeon that was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen, who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. This verse is the only place in Scripture where his name appears. Nothing is recorded about his origins, his life, or his later activities.

According to Acts 13:2-3, as these men ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit told them to set apart Barnabas and Saul. The church then fasted and prayed, laid their hands on the two men, and sent them away. The flow of the narrative suggests that Simeon was among the leaders who took part in this commissioning. This sending marks the beginning of what is known as Paul's first missionary journey.

Significance Within Scripture

Simeon appears as one of the prophets and teachers who led the church at Antioch. The list also includes Barnabas, a Levite from Cyprus; Lucius of Cyrene; Manaen, who was closely connected with the Herodian royal family; and Saul of Tarsus. For this reason, many commentators regard the list as evidence that people of diverse backgrounds led a single church together. About Simeon himself, the text states only his name and his role.

Interpretations and Issues

• The meaning of "Niger": "Niger" is a Latin word meaning "black." On this basis, some interpreters suggest that he had dark skin or was of African origin. However, the idea that the nickname refers to his origin or appearance is conjecture; the text does not explain why he bore it.
• Identification with Simon of Cyrene: Some identify him with Simon of Cyrene, who carried the cross for Jesus (Mark 15:21), pointing out that Lucius of Cyrene appears in the same list. This view is speculation that Scripture does not confirm, and many scholars do not regard the two as the same person.
• Distinction from others named Simeon: He is distinct from others who bear the same name, such as Simeon (son of Jacob), the Simeon who received the infant Jesus in the temple, and the apostle Peter (Simon).

In the Korean Church

He is rarely discussed in his own right. He is mentioned mainly as one of the leaders listed in sermons or Bible studies that present the church at Antioch as a model of a missionary-sending church.