Simon Σίμων
Sorcerer in Samaria who tried to buy the Holy Spirit's power.
Who is Simon in the Bible?
Simon the Sorcerer was a man living in Samaria who practiced magic and amazed the people with his supernatural abilities (Acts 8:9). When the apostle Philip preached the gospel in Samaria, Simon believed and was baptized along with many others (Acts 8:13). However, when Peter and John arrived and laid hands on believers to receive the Holy Spirit, Simon offered them money, wanting to purchase the power to impart the Holy Spirit himself (Acts 8:18-19). Peter rebuked him sharply, declaring that his heart was not right with God and calling him to repent (Acts 8:20-23). This account became so significant that the sin of attempting to buy spiritual gifts or church positions is still called "simony" today, serving as a lasting biblical warning against greed and the commercialization of God's grace.
Biography
Simon, often referred to as Simon Magus or Simon the Sorcerer, was a man living in Samaria who practiced sorcery and amazed the people with his magic (Act.8.9). When Philip came to Samaria preaching the gospel, Simon believed and was baptized along with many others (Act.8.13). However, when the apostles Peter and John arrived and laid hands on the believers to receive the Holy Spirit, Simon offered them money, wanting to buy the power to impart the Holy Spirit to others (Act.8.18-19). Peter sternly rebuked Simon for his attempt to purchase God's gift with money, telling him to repent of his wickedness and pray for forgiveness (Act.8.20-23). Simon, frightened by Peter's words, asked the apostles to pray for him (Act.8.24). This account serves as a warning against the sin of simony (attempting to buy or sell spiritual gifts or offices) and emphasizes that God's gifts cannot be obtained through material means but are freely given by His grace.
In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study contentActs 4 verses
- Acts 8:9
"Prior to that time, a man named Simon had practiced sorcery in the city and astounded the people of Samaria. He claimed to be someone great,"
Study Acts → - Acts 8:13
"Even Simon himself believed and was baptized. He followed Philip closely and was astounded by the great signs and miracles he observed."
Study Acts → - Acts 8:18
"When Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money."
Study Acts → - Acts 8:24
"Then Simon answered, “Pray to the Lord for me, so that nothing you have said may happen to me.”"
Study Acts →
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script | Transliteration | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Named | Greek | Σίμων | Símōn | Simon (i.e. Shimon), the name of nine Israelites |