The Hebrew word Kalkôl, represented by H3633, is the name of an Israelite, with alternative spellings of Calcol and Chalcol. Its underlying root can also mean sustenance. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses, primarily serving to identify a specific individual within historical and genealogical records.
In the biblical narrative, H3633 is mentioned in two distinct contexts. In 1 Kings, he is listed as Chalcol among a group of men renowned for their wisdom, including Ethan the Ezrahite, Heman, and Darda. This group serves as a benchmark to emphasize Solomon's unparalleled wisdom, who "was wiser than all men" 1 Kings 4:31. In 1 Chronicles, he is named Calcol and listed as one of the five sons of Zerah from the tribe of Judah 1 Chronicles 2:6, placing him within a key Israelite genealogy.
Several related words help clarify the context in which Calcol appears:
- H2449 châkam (to be wise): This word is central to Calcol's mention in 1 Kings, where Solomon's God-given wisdom is shown to exceed that of other famously wise men 1 Kings 4:31.
- H1121 bên (a son): This term is crucial for establishing Calcol's identity. He is called one of the "sons of Mahol" 1 Kings 4:31 and one of the "sons of Zerah" 1 Chronicles 2:6, defining his lineage.
- H1968 Hêymân (faithful): Heman is listed alongside Calcol in both biblical passages. He is also identified as a prominent Levitical singer appointed for service 1 Chronicles 6:33, suggesting the high caliber of individuals Calcol was associated with.
- H2226 Zerach (Zerach): He is named as the father of Calcol in the genealogy of Judah, linking Calcol directly to one of the major family lines of Israel 1 Chronicles 2:6.
The significance of H3633 is found in its associations rather than in direct theological statements.
- A Standard of Human Wisdom: Calcol is part of a group whose wisdom was famous in Israel. By stating Solomon was wiser, the text establishes a high-water mark for human wisdom that is then surpassed by divine endowment 1 Kings 4:31.
- Genealogical Integrity: His inclusion in the formal records of Judah underscores the biblical emphasis on lineage and heritage. It marks his place within the larger story of God's covenant people through the line of Zerah 1 Chronicles 2:6.
- Renown and Fame: The account in 1 Kings notes that Solomon's fame was in all the surrounding nations. By being compared to Solomon, Calcol is implicitly part of a group with significant renown 1 Kings 4:31.
In summary, H3633 identifies an Israelite named Calcol or Chalcol. While appearing only twice, his name is preserved in scripture as a member of a group of famously wise men and as a descendant in the prominent lineage of Judah through Zerah. His presence in these records serves to highlight the greater wisdom of Solomon and to affirm the detailed genealogical accounting of the tribes of Israel.
TRV