Who was Shallum in the Bible?
The Name and Its Meaning
The name Shallum, derived from the Hebrew שַׁלּוּם (Shallum), means “peace” or “wholeness.” This name is borne by numerous individuals in the Old Testament, each playing a unique role in the biblical narrative. Exploring these different characters named Shallum provides insight into various aspects of Israel’s history and God’s dealings with His people.
a. Husband of Huldah
Shallum, the son of Tikvah, was married to Huldah, a prophetess during the reign of King Josiah (2 Kings 22:14; 2 Chronicles 34:22). Huldah’s prophecy confirmed the dire consequences awaiting Judah due to their disobedience but also affirmed God’s mercy towards Josiah. Shallum’s association with Huldah places him in the context of a significant spiritual revival and reform in Judah.
b. Ancestor of David
In 1 Chronicles 2:40, Shallum is listed as the son of Sismai and the father of Jekamiah, making him an ancestor of King David. This genealogical detail emphasizes the continuity of God’s covenant promises through the lineage of David, ultimately leading to the Messiah.
c. Jehoahaz (Shallum)
Jehoahaz, also known as Shallum, was the 17th king of Judah. His reign was brief, lasting only three months before Pharaoh Neco exiled him to Egypt, where he died (2 Kings 23:34; 1 Chronicles 3:15). His short reign reflects the turbulent period of Judah’s history leading up to the Babylonian exile.
d. A King of Israel
Another Shallum, the son of Jabesh, assassinated King Zechariah of Israel and seized the throne. However, his reign lasted only a month before Menahem killed him and took over the kingship (2 Kings 15:10-14). This account highlights the instability and violence that characterized the northern kingdom of Israel.
e. Descendant of Simeon
Shallum, mentioned in 1 Chronicles 4:25, was a descendant of Simeon. He was the son of Shaul and the father of Mibsam. This genealogical reference connects Shallum to the tribe of Simeon, emphasizing the diverse roles and lineage within Israel.
f. Son of Zadok, Ancestor of Ezra
In the genealogies of the Levites, Shallum is listed as a descendant of Zadok and an ancestor of Ezra, the scribe and priest (1 Chronicles 6:12-13; Ezra 7:2; Nehemiah 11:11). This connection underscores the continuity of the Levitical priesthood and the importance of maintaining religious purity and tradition.
g. A Gatekeeper
Shallum was also a chief gatekeeper in post-exilic Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 9:17, 31; Ezra 10:24; Nehemiah 7:45). Gatekeepers were crucial for maintaining the sanctity and security of the temple. Shallum’s role signifies the importance of order and reverence in worship practices.
h. Father of Jehizkiah
Shallum, the father of Jehizkiah, is mentioned in 2 Chronicles 28:12. Jehizkiah played a role in a conflict involving Ephraimite chiefs and the army of Israel. This account highlights the complexities of intertribal relations and the overarching theme of obedience to God.
i. A Post-Exile Divorcee
In Ezra 10:42, Shallum is listed among those who had married foreign wives and were commanded to separate from them as part of Ezra’s reforms. This action aimed to preserve the purity of the Israelite community and their covenant relationship with God.
j. Two District Commanders
Two individuals named Shallum were involved in rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls after the Babylonian exile. Shallum, the son of Hallohesh, worked on a section of the wall with his daughters (Nehemiah 3:12), and Shallum, the son of Col-hozeh, repaired the Fountain Gate (Nehemiah 3:15). Their efforts symbolize the restoration and renewal of Jerusalem.
k. Jeremiah’s Uncle
Shallum was the uncle of the prophet Jeremiah, being the brother of Jeremiah’s father, Hilkiah (Jeremiah 32:7). This familial connection situates Shallum within the prophetic ministry of Jeremiah, who played a critical role in calling Judah back to faithfulness.
l. Father of Maaseiah
Shallum is briefly mentioned as the father of Maaseiah, a temple door attendant (Jeremiah 35:4). This reference underscores the varied roles individuals named Shallum played in maintaining the worship and order of the temple.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
Importance of Obedience and Faithfulness
The diverse roles of individuals named Shallum highlight the importance of obedience and faithfulness in different contexts. Whether serving as a gatekeeper, a king, or a worker rebuilding the walls, each Shallum played a part in God’s plan. Modern Christians are reminded to faithfully fulfill their roles, trusting that God values their contributions.
The Impact of Reforms
Shallum’s connection to significant reforms, such as those led by Ezra and Josiah, emphasizes the importance of returning to God’s ways. Christians today are called to uphold the purity of their faith and community, continually seeking to align their lives with God’s commands.
God’s Sovereignty in History
The multiple mentions of Shallum in various contexts illustrate God’s sovereignty over history. Despite human failures and the complexities of political and social upheavals, God’s plan continues to unfold. This reassures believers that God is in control and His purposes will prevail.
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Faithfulness Across Generations
The genealogy of Shallum as an ancestor of David and Ezra demonstrates God’s faithfulness across generations. God’s promises to His people are enduring, and He remains committed to His covenant despite human frailty. This encourages believers to trust in God’s unchanging nature and His steadfast love.
God’s Provision for Leadership
God’s raising up of leaders like Shallum in various capacities—whether as kings, gatekeepers, or reformers—shows His provision for His people. Christians can take comfort in knowing that God equips and appoints leaders to guide and protect His flock.
Connection to Jesus Christ
Foreshadowing Christ’s Kingship
The turbulent reigns of Shallum and Jehoahaz highlight the need for a righteous and eternal king, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Unlike the fleeting and often flawed kings of Israel and Judah, Jesus reigns with justice and peace forever (Isaiah 9:6-7).
Christ as the Gate
The role of Shallum as a gatekeeper foreshadows Jesus’ statement in John 10:9, “I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.” Just as gatekeepers protected the sanctity of the temple, Jesus provides the way to eternal life and safeguards the purity of His Church.
Conclusion
The name Shallum appears multiple times in the Old Testament, each time associated with different individuals who played significant roles in Israel’s history. From a prophetess’s husband to a king, a gatekeeper, and a reformer, each Shallum contributed to the unfolding of God’s plan. Their stories teach modern Christians about faithfulness, the importance of reform, and God’s sovereignty. Ultimately, these accounts point to the fulfillment of God’s promises in Jesus Christ, the eternal King and the true Gate. Through studying the lives and roles of these biblical figures, believers gain a deeper understanding of God’s work and are inspired to faithfully serve in their own contexts.