Who was Simon the Tanner in the Bible?

Background and Identity

Simon the Tanner appears in the New Testament book of Acts as a resident of Joppa (modern-day Jaffa). Tanning involved working with animal skins, often in a locale near the sea where water was abundant and winds helped disperse the strong odors. In Acts 9:43, we read: “And Peter stayed for many days in Joppa with a tanner named Simon.” This brief statement underscores his vocation and location.

Scriptural References

Simon the Tanner is directly mentioned in Acts 9:43 and again in the account surrounding Peter’s vision in Acts 10:6, 17, and 32. In Acts 10:6, the angel directs Cornelius to “send men to Joppa to call for a man named Simon who is called Peter. He is staying with Simon the tanner, whose house is by the sea.” These details reveal the significance of Simon’s home as a setting where pivotal events related to the early Church would unfold.

Occupation and Cultural Context

1. Role of Tanners in Ancient Society: Tanners processed animal hides, which was often considered a ritually unclean profession among Jewish people (Leviticus 11 and 17 include instructions about dead animals and blood). Although Scripture does not explicitly say Simon was treated as an outcast, his residence near the sea aligns with known historical practices. Tanners usually lived at the outskirts of town due to the smell and the need for salt water in their trade.

2. View of Tanning in Jewish Tradition: Early Jewish writings and historical records indicate that tanners often occupied lower social standings. Yet, Acts makes it clear that Peter felt at liberty to accept hospitality in Simon’s home, implying a focus on the new covenant expansions of fellowship rather than traditional social or ritual restrictions.

Peter’s Ministry at Simon’s House

1. Extended Stay: According to Acts 9:42–43, Peter stayed “for many days” at Simon’s house after the miraculous raising of Tabitha (Dorcas) from the dead in Joppa. Peter’s willingness to lodge at a tanner’s house signified the breaking of customary Jewish boundaries, anticipating the broader acceptance of Gentiles into the community of believers.

2. Setting for a Vision: While in Joppa at Simon’s house, Peter had the famous rooftop vision of a sheet descending from heaven (Acts 10:9–16). This vision prepared Peter to welcome Gentiles as believers—a major turning point in the early Church. The location itself, associated with an occupation deemed unclean, sets the stage for this transformative revelation that Gentile believers would also be accepted by God.

Archaeological and Historical Insights

1. Location in Joppa: Joppa was an ancient port city with a long history, referenced in the Old Testament (e.g., 2 Chronicles 2:16). Archaeological excavations of Joppa confirm it was a bustling trade center, making it a practical place for a tanner’s workshop.

2. Odor and Proximity to the Sea: Archaeologists and historians have noted that tanneries often were positioned near bodies of water for logistical reasons. While direct evidence of Simon’s home is challenging to pinpoint, the biblical description aligns with the geographic and cultural realities of tanning in first-century Judea.

Spiritual and Theological Significance

1. Inclusivity Demonstrated: Peter’s choice to stay with Simon underscores the inclusive nature of the gospel. The old purity regulations that might have discouraged close interactions with tanners did not hinder Peter. This theme correlates with the wider narrative of Acts, where Jews and Gentiles are brought together in Christ.

2. Preparation for Gentile Mission: Peter’s lodging with Simon leads directly to the account of Cornelius (Acts 10). The profound realization that Gentiles need not submit to every aspect of the traditional Jewish purity code for salvation was one of the milestone shifts in early Christianity.

3. Hospitality and Service: The mention of Simon the Tanner’s hospitality parallels other New Testament examples of believers who opened their homes for ministry and fellowship. Though little is said about Simon’s personal faith, his role in offering Peter a place to stay likely contributed to the foundation of Gentile evangelism.

Concluding Insights

Simon the Tanner, though briefly mentioned, occupies a vital position in the New Testament narrative. He provided lodging for the apostle Peter—a decision that helped set the stage for one of the most significant developments in church history: the movement of the gospel beyond the confines of Jewish customs to the entire world.

As shown in Acts 10:34–35, Peter declares, “I now truly understand that God does not show favoritism, but welcomes those from every nation who fear Him and do what is right.” Such inclusive grace is vividly highlighted by Peter’s visionary experience at the modest home of Simon the Tanner by the sea.