The way of Simeon as a way into the New Jerusalem

by Rev. Michaël Merle

In Chapter 21 of The Revelation to John (The Book of the Apocalypse: Revelation) we read part of the description of the New Jerusalem, a picture of a mighty vision experienced by John in the Spiritual World: “The city has a great and high wall and twelve gates. And on the gates twelve angels, and names were written on them: the names of the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel.” (verse 12)

This year we hope to uncover an understanding of the twelve ways in which we can enter the New Jerusalem.

The way of Simeon:

The second son of Jacob, Simeon, represents the way of confrontation. This is often misunderstood as conflict, and certainly Simeon found himself as a fighter or warrior in conflict with others. But the true significance of the path he opens up for us is the way of facing the other and facing the truth, as well ​as the deep significance of facing ourselves – confronting our problems, anxieties and areas of distress. We can easily deny or disregard those facets of ourselves we find problematic and concerning. We are also very good at making excuses for our behaviour, attitudes and actions. The strength to face the reality of ourselves and the world takes courage. Simeon presents us with the courage to face adversity and the obstacles of life. We cannot hope to overcome issues or build resilience or manage and resolve a situation if we are not first willing to face the problem or challenge. The symbol of Simeon is often that of the entrance to a walled city. We may choose to regard it as the picture of the way through a barrier or obstacle, the opening through which we can enter that place of peace, resolution and solution.