The Hebrew name Kol-Chôzeh, represented by H3626, is defined as an Israelite. The name itself is derived from the combination of words for "every" and "seer," giving it the literal meaning of every seer. This name appears 2 times in 2 unique verses, situating this individual within the post-exilic history of Israel.
In the biblical narrative, Kol-Chôzeh H3626 is mentioned exclusively in the book of Nehemiah in genealogical contexts. He is identified as the father of Shallun, who was "the ruler of part of Mizpah" and responsible for repairing the fountain gate and the wall of the pool of Siloah by the king's garden Nehemiah 3:15. He is also listed as an ancestor of Maaseiah, a descendant who lived in Jerusalem, in a lineage that traces back through Baruch, Kol-Chôzeh, Hazaiah, and others Nehemiah 11:5.
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding Kol-Chôzeh:
- H1121 ben (son): This term is crucial for establishing the identity of Kol-Chôzeh as an ancestor. It is used to connect him to his descendants, such as "Shallun the son of Colhozeh" Nehemiah 3:15 and "Maaseiah the son of Baruch, the son of Colhozeh" Nehemiah 11:5.
- H8269 sar (ruler): This word denotes a head person or chief and describes the leadership position held by the son of Kol-Chôzeh. Shallun is explicitly called "the ruler of part of Mizpah," linking the family of Kol-Chôzeh to the civil administration of the community Nehemiah 3:15.
- H4428 melek (king): This term for a king or royal authority provides a landmark for the repair work undertaken by Shallun, which was located near "the king's garden" Nehemiah 3:15.
The significance of H3626 is not found in direct theological discourse but in its inclusion within the historical and genealogical records of Israel's restoration.
- Genealogical Identity: The listing of Kol-Chôzeh in a detailed lineage underscores the importance of heritage and belonging for the community resettling Jerusalem after the exile Nehemiah 11:5.
- Contribution to Restoration: Through his son Shallun, Kol-Chôzeh is linked to the vital work of rebuilding the city's walls and gates, a physical act with deep spiritual significance for the re-establishment of the nation Nehemiah 3:15.
- Family and Leadership: The record of his son being a ruler H8269 shows that the family of Kol-Chôzeh played a role in the civic leadership necessary for Israel's survival and governance during a critical period.
In summary, Kol-Chôzeh H3626 is an individual whose identity is preserved in Scripture as an ancestor of figures active during the time of Nehemiah. Though mentioned only twice, his presence in the biblical text highlights the importance of family lineage and the contribution of specific families, like his, to the leadership and physical restoration of Jerusalem. His legacy is carried through his descendants who took part in rebuilding the covenant community.
TRV