Who Was Col-hozeh in the Bible?
Col-hozeh is a lesser-known figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the books of Nehemiah. His name, derived from the Hebrew “קֹל־חוֹזֶה” (Kol-hozeh), means “all-seeing” or “voice of the seer.” This name suggests a connection to vision or prophecy, though the biblical text does not elaborate on any prophetic role he may have held. Col-hozeh is identified as the father of two notable individuals during the period of the return from Babylonian exile: Shallum and Baruch.
Col-hozeh as the Father of Shallum
Col-hozeh is mentioned in Nehemiah 3:15 as the father of Shallum. The passage states, “The Fountain Gate was repaired by Shallum son of Col-hozeh, ruler of the district of Mizpah.” Shallum played a significant role in the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls, a monumental task led by Nehemiah. Shallum’s specific responsibility was repairing the Fountain Gate, a critical part of the city’s infrastructure, as it provided access to vital water sources.
Shallum’s position as a district ruler, or “sar” (שַׂר) in Hebrew, indicates that he was a person of some authority and influence within the community. This role would have required leadership skills and a commitment to the welfare of the people, particularly in the challenging post-exilic period when Jerusalem was being rebuilt and reestablished.
Col-hozeh as the Father of Baruch
In Nehemiah 11:5, Col-hozeh is mentioned again, this time as the father of Baruch. The verse reads, “And Maaseiah son of Baruch, son of Col-hozeh, one of the leaders of the people of Israel, lived in Jerusalem.” This passage situates Col-hozeh within a genealogical context, connecting him to other leaders and families involved in the governance and restoration of Jerusalem.
Baruch’s lineage places him among the returnees who were tasked with resettling Jerusalem and revitalizing the city’s religious and social life. The inclusion of Col-hozeh’s name in this lineage underscores the importance of family heritage and lineage in the Jewish community, especially during a time of rebuilding and renewal.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
Importance of Leadership and Service
The mention of Col-hozeh’s sons, Shallum and Baruch, highlights the value of leadership and service in the community. Shallum’s work on the Fountain Gate and Baruch’s involvement in Jerusalem’s administration are examples of how individuals can contribute to the greater good. Modern Christians can learn from this by recognizing the importance of serving in various capacities within their communities and churches. Leadership is not just about authority; it is also about stewardship and responsibility.
The Role of Family Heritage
The biblical references to Col-hozeh emphasize the significance of family heritage and the passing down of faith and responsibility through generations. For Christians today, this underscores the importance of nurturing faith within the family unit and instilling values that encourage service, integrity, and commitment to God’s work.
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Faithfulness in Restoration
The period in which Col-hozeh and his family lived was one of restoration and renewal for the people of Israel. The rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls and the reestablishment of the city as a center of worship were acts of God’s faithfulness to His covenant people. This restoration process demonstrates God’s unwavering commitment to His promises and His people, even after periods of judgment and exile.
For modern Christians, this narrative is a reminder of God’s loving and redemptive nature. It encourages believers to trust in God’s plans, even when facing challenges or setbacks. Just as God restored Jerusalem and its people, He continues to work in the lives of believers, guiding and restoring them according to His purpose.
Connection to Jesus Christ
The Lineage and Fulfillment of Promises
While Col-hozeh himself is not directly connected to the lineage of Jesus Christ, his descendants and the broader narrative of Israel’s restoration are part of the unfolding story of God’s plan for salvation. The rebuilding of Jerusalem and the renewal of the covenant community set the stage for the coming of the Messiah, who would fulfill the Old Testament prophecies and bring ultimate redemption.
The faithfulness displayed by individuals like Shallum and Baruch in restoring the city reflects the faithfulness of God, who would ultimately send His Son, Jesus Christ, to fulfill the law and the prophets. This connection underscores the continuity of God’s plan from the Old Testament through to the New Testament, culminating in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
Conclusion
Col-hozeh, though briefly mentioned in the Old Testament, is significant through his descendants, Shallum and Baruch, who played roles in the post-exilic restoration of Jerusalem. The mention of Col-hozeh and his family in the Scriptures serves as a reminder of the importance of leadership, service, and the enduring faithfulness of God. For modern Christians, the story of Col-hozeh and his descendants provides valuable lessons in faith, stewardship, and the continuity of God’s redemptive plan through history. This narrative encourages believers to trust in God’s promises and to actively participate in His work, knowing that every contribution, no matter how small, is significant in the grand design of God’s kingdom.