from קוֹל and יָהּ; voice of Jah; Kolajah, the name of two Israelites; Kolaiah.
Transliteration:Qôwlâyâh
Pronunciation:ko-law-yaw'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun קוֹלָיָה (Qôwlâyâh), designated by Strong's `{{H6964}}`, is a compound name derived from two distinct Hebrew elements. The first component is קוֹל (qôl, `{{H6963}}`), meaning "voice," "sound," or "noise." The second element is יָהּ (Yah, `{{H3050}}`), a shortened, poetic form of the divine name YHWH, the LORD. Therefore, the name קוֹלָיָה literally translates to "Voice of Yah" or "Voice of the LORD." As a personal name, its semantic range is tightly bound to this etymological meaning, signifying a connection to divine communication or the active presence of God's voice.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name קוֹלָיָה (Qôwlâyâh) appears twice in the Old Testament, referring to two distinct individuals:
1. **[[Ezra 10:23]]**: Here, Kolaiah is listed among the "sons of Benjamin" who had taken foreign wives during the post-exilic period. This chapter details the covenant made under Ezra's leadership to put away these foreign wives and their children, signifying a period of national repentance and purification. Kolaiah's inclusion in this list indicates his participation in this significant religious and social reform, highlighting a moment when the community sought to align itself more strictly with God's law.
2. **[[Nehemiah 11:7]]**: In this passage, Kolaiah is mentioned as an ancestor in the lineage of Sallu, a Benjamite who resided in Jerusalem after the return from exile. The chapter details the inhabitants of Jerusalem and other Judean towns, underscoring the repopulation and re-establishment of the community in the land. This genealogical context places Kolaiah within the foundational history of the restored nation, contributing to the narrative of continuity and divine faithfulness.
In both instances, the name is associated with the post-exilic community, a period characterized by a renewed focus on covenant fidelity and the rebuilding of national and religious identity. While the specific roles of these individuals are not extensively detailed, their mere presence in these significant historical records ties the name "Voice of Yah" to pivotal moments of restoration and re-establishment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary components of קוֹלָיָה (Qôwlâyâh) are central to understanding its deeper meaning:
* **קוֹל (qôl, `{{H6963}}`)**: This word is frequently used in the Old Testament to denote the "voice" of God, as heard by humanity (e.g., [[Exodus 19:19]], [[Deuteronomy 4:12]]). It can also refer to human voices, sounds of nature, or general noises. In the context of a divine name, it strongly evokes the concept of divine utterance and revelation.
* **יָהּ (Yah, `{{H3050}}`)**: As a shortened form of the unpronounceable tetragrammaton YHWH, "Yah" unequivocally points to the God of Israel, emphasizing His covenantal relationship with His people.
Other related concepts include:
* **Theophoric names**: Names incorporating divine elements were common in ancient Israel, reflecting the parents' faith, prayers, or a perceived divine attribute. "Voice of Yah" is distinct in its direct reference to God's active communication.
* **Divine communication/revelation**: The name inherently points to God's speaking nature, whether through prophets, direct address, or the giving of the Law.
* **Prophecy**: While not explicitly stated, a name like "Voice of Yah" could subtly allude to a prophetic calling or a person through whom God's message was conveyed.
### Theological Significance
The name קוֹלָיָה (Qôwlâyâh), "Voice of Yah," carries profound theological resonance. It speaks to the active, communicative nature of God, who is not silent but consistently reveals Himself and His will to humanity.
* **God's Active Presence**: The name affirms the belief that God's voice was present and operative, even during the challenging post-exilic period. It suggests a divine guidance that was perceived to be audible or discernible to His people.
* **Divine Authority and Guidance**: The "voice of Yah" is inherently authoritative. For an individual to bear this name could imply a life lived in attentiveness to God's commands, or perhaps a person whose life or lineage was seen as a conduit for God's purposes. In the context of Ezra's reforms, where Kolaiah is found, the emphasis on God's voice would be particularly poignant, guiding the community in repentance and obedience.
* **Hope and Reassurance**: In a time of national rebuilding and spiritual reorientation, a name like "Voice of Yah" could serve as a reminder that God had not abandoned His people and that His word would continue to lead them. It underscores the enduring covenant relationship and God's commitment to His promises. The very existence of such a name testifies to the enduring belief in a God who speaks and acts in history.
### Summary
קוֹלָיָה (Qôwlâyâh, `{{H6964}}`) is a Hebrew personal name meaning "Voice of Yah" or "Voice of the LORD," formed from the elements קוֹל (qôl, `{{H6963}}`, "voice") and יָהּ (Yah, `{{H3050}}`, a shortened form of YHWH). This name appears twice in the Old Testament, identifying two different Israelites within the post-exilic community: one in [[Ezra 10:23]] who participated in the reforms concerning foreign marriages, and another in [[Nehemiah 11:7]] as an ancestor in a Benjamite lineage. Theologically, the name powerfully emphasizes the active, speaking nature of God and His continued communication with His people. It suggests a connection to divine guidance and authority, serving as a profound reminder of God's presence and His word in the midst of Israel's restoration.
TRV