Who Was Tikvah in the Bible?
Tikvah is a lesser-known figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Kings 22:14, 2 Chronicles 34:22, and Ezra 10:15. His name, which in Hebrew (תִּקְוָה) means “hope” or “expectation,” is associated with two distinct individuals in the biblical narrative. The first Tikvah is noted as the father of Shallum, the husband of the prophetess Huldah during the time of King Josiah. The second Tikvah is mentioned in the book of Ezra, where he is associated with a group that opposed a significant reform movement led by Ezra after the return from exile.
Tikvah: The Father of Shallum
The Historical Context of King Josiah’s Reforms
The first Tikvah mentioned in the Bible is introduced in 2 Kings 22:14 and 2 Chronicles 34:22. These verses place Tikvah within the narrative of King Josiah’s reign, during a period of significant religious reform in Judah. Josiah, one of Judah’s last godly kings, initiated a series of reforms to cleanse the land of idolatry and restore proper worship of Yahweh after the discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple.
In this context, Tikvah is described as the father of Shallum, who was the husband of Huldah the prophetess. Huldah played a crucial role in confirming the authenticity of the Book of the Law and delivering a prophetic message to King Josiah about the impending judgment on Judah because of the nation’s disobedience. The text reads, “So Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Achbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah went to speak to the prophet Huldah, who was the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe” (2 Kings 22:14 NIV).
Tikvah: An Opponent of Ezra’s Reform
The Post-Exile Context
The second Tikvah mentioned in the Bible is found in Ezra 10:15. This verse situates Tikvah during the post-exilic period, after the Jewish people returned from Babylonian captivity. Upon their return, Ezra, a priest and scribe, discovered that many of the Israelites, including priests and Levites, had married foreign women, which was against the Mosaic Law. This intermarriage was seen as a threat to the religious and cultural identity of the Jewish people.
In response, Ezra called for a reform, urging the men of Israel to divorce their foreign wives in order to maintain the purity of the Israelite community. However, not everyone supported this drastic measure. Ezra 10:15 notes that Tikvah (referred to as Tokhath in some versions) was among those who opposed Ezra’s reform. The verse reads, “Only Jonathan son of Asahel and Jahzeiah son of Tikvah opposed this, and Meshullam and Shabbethai the Levite supported them” (Ezra 10:15 NIV).
Lessons for the Modern Christian
Standing in the Background of God’s Work
The story of Tikvah in the context of Josiah’s reform teaches us about the significance of seemingly minor figures in the unfolding of God’s plans. Though Tikvah himself is not a central figure, his connection to Huldah, a key prophetess during a pivotal moment in Judah’s history, underscores how God uses various individuals, whether prominent or in the background, to accomplish His purposes. This reminds modern Christians that every role in God’s kingdom, no matter how small it may seem, is important.
Romans 12:4-5 illustrates this truth: “For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” Tikvah’s story encourages us to embrace our unique roles within the body of Christ, knowing that God’s work is accomplished through the collective faithfulness of His people.
The Complexity of God’s People
Tikvah’s opposition to Ezra’s reform in Ezra 10 highlights the complexity of the people of God and the difficulties of maintaining purity and unity within the community. While the Bible often presents leaders like Ezra as champions of righteousness, it also acknowledges the presence of differing opinions and challenges within the community.
For modern Christians, this story serves as a reminder that unity in the body of Christ requires grace, understanding, and a commitment to God’s truth. While it is essential to uphold biblical principles, it is also important to approach disagreements within the church with humility and a spirit of reconciliation. Ephesians 4:2-3 instructs us, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Sovereignty in Human Affairs
The mention of Tikvah in both contexts demonstrates God’s sovereignty in human history. Whether in the reforms of King Josiah or the challenges faced by the returning exiles under Ezra, God was actively guiding His people according to His will. Even those who may seem to play minor roles or who oppose certain actions are still part of God’s overarching plan.
This connection to a loving God reassures believers that He is always at work, even in the complexities and struggles of life. God’s love and sovereignty extend to every detail, and nothing happens outside of His control. As Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” Trusting in God’s sovereignty allows us to rest in His love, knowing that He is working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28).
The Call to Obedience and Faithfulness
Tikvah’s story also highlights the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God’s commands. Whether in the context of Josiah’s reforms or Ezra’s efforts to restore the purity of the Israelite community, the central issue was the people’s faithfulness to God’s covenant. God’s love for His people is evident in His desire for them to live in accordance with His will, which ultimately leads to blessing and flourishing.
For Christians today, this means that our love for God should be reflected in our obedience to His Word. Jesus said in John 14:15, “If you love me, keep my commands.” Our response to God’s love is not just emotional but is demonstrated through our commitment to living out His truth in every aspect of our lives.
Connection to Jesus Christ
The Fulfillment of God’s Promises
While Tikvah’s role in the Bible may seem small, his connection to significant moments in Israel’s history points forward to the greater work of God in Christ. The reforms of Josiah and Ezra were ultimately about restoring the people of God to a right relationship with Him—a relationship that finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ.
Jesus is the fulfillment of all God’s promises, including the restoration and purification of His people. In Christ, we are made new, and our sins are forgiven, not through the sacrifices or rituals of the Old Testament but through His once-for-all sacrifice on the cross. Hebrews 10:14 declares, “For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.” This truth invites us to rest in the completed work of Christ and to live out our faith with confidence in His sufficiency.
The Call to Faithful Witness
Finally, Tikvah’s story, particularly his opposition to Ezra’s reform, challenges us to consider our own response to God’s call. Are we willing to align our lives with God’s purposes, even when it is difficult or unpopular? Jesus calls us to be faithful witnesses to His truth, even in the face of opposition or disagreement.
As followers of Christ, we are called to stand firm in our faith, to speak the truth in love, and to live as lights in a world that often rejects God’s ways. 1 Peter 3:15 encourages us, “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” Like Tikvah, our lives are part of a larger story, and how we respond to God’s call matters both now and for eternity.
Conclusion
Tikvah, though a minor figure in the Bible, is connected to significant moments in Israel’s history during the reign of King Josiah and the post-exilic period under Ezra. His story provides valuable lessons for modern Christians about the importance of faithfulness, the complexity of community life, and the sovereignty of God in all things.
For believers today, Tikvah’s story challenges us to embrace our roles within God’s kingdom, to seek unity and obedience, and to trust in God’s loving sovereignty. It also points us to the fulfillment of God’s promises in Jesus Christ, who calls us to live as faithful witnesses to His truth and grace. As we reflect on Tikvah’s place in the biblical narrative, we are reminded that every person and every moment is part of God’s unfolding plan, and our lives have eternal significance in His kingdom.