### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Çallûw**, represented by `{{H5543}}`, is a proper name for two Israelites meaning **weighed**. It appears 6 times across 6 unique verses. Though not a common name, its occurrences are tied to significant moments and genealogical records, particularly concerning the tribes of Simeon and Benjamin and the post-exilic priesthood.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name **Çallûw** appears in several distinct contexts. The first is as the father of Zimri, a **prince** `{{H5387}}` of the Simeonites who was **slain** `{{H5221}}` for his sin with a Midianitish woman [[Numbers 25:14]]. The name also identifies an important Benjamite whose lineage is recorded among those who resettled Jerusalem after the exile ([[1 Chronicles 9:7]], [[Nehemiah 11:7]]). Finally, an individual named Sallu or Sallai is listed as one of the **chief** `{{H7218}}` of the **priests** `{{H3548}}` who returned with Jeshua [[Nehemiah 12:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the identity and role of the individuals named **Çallûw**:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word is used repeatedly to trace the genealogies of **Çallûw**, establishing his lineage within the tribe of Benjamin through figures like **Meshullam** `{{H4918}}` and **Hodaviah** `{{H1938}}` [[1 Chronicles 9:7]].
* `{{H1144}}` **Binyâmîyn** (Benjamin): This identifies the tribal affiliation for the **Çallûw** mentioned in the post-exilic census lists, connecting him to the prominent tribe of **Benjamin** ([[1 Chronicles 9:7]], [[Nehemiah 11:7]]).
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest): One of the men, named Sallu, is identified as a leader among the **priests** `{{H3548}}`, highlighting his role in the restored worship system in Jerusalem [[Nehemiah 12:7]].
### Theological Significance
The name **Çallûw** is associated with several key biblical themes, primarily through the lives of the individuals who bore it.
* **Genealogical Identity:** The name is a key marker in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles and Nehemiah, which were vital for re-establishing tribal identity and order after the Babylonian exile. The record of **Sallu** `{{H5543}}` solidifies the presence of the tribe of **Benjamin** `{{H1144}}` in the restored community [[Nehemiah 11:7]].
* **Leadership and Authority:** The individuals named Sallu or their immediate descendants held positions of authority. One was the father of a **prince** `{{H5387}}` among the Simeonites [[Numbers 25:14]], while another was a **chief** `{{H7218}}` among the returning **priests** `{{H3548}}` [[Nehemiah 12:7]].
* **Divine Accountability:** The first appearance of the name is linked to a narrative of sin and immediate judgment. Salu's son, Zimri, a leader in Israel, was publicly **slain** `{{H5221}}` for his transgression, demonstrating that leadership does not provide exemption from accountability [[Numbers 25:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5543}}` **Çallûw** is more than a simple name. It serves as a genealogical anchor, connecting post-exilic families to their tribal roots and identifying key figures in Israel's leadership, both secular and priestly. The name is also tied to a stark reminder of divine judgment, illustrating that position and lineage come with significant responsibility. Through these contexts, the name contributes to the broader biblical themes of heritage, leadership, and accountability.
TRV