Lexical Summary Shallun: Shallun Original Word: שַׁלּוּן Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Shallum Probably for Shalluwm; Shallun, an Israelite -- Shallum. see HEBREW Shalluwm NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originof uncertain derivation Definition one of the postexilic wall builders NASB Translation Shallum (1). Topical Lexicon Historical Context Shallun appears during the mid–fifth century BC, when Nehemiah mobilised the returned exiles to rebuild Jerusalem’s broken walls. The work occurred under constant threat from neighbouring powers, yet “the people had a mind to work” (Nehemiah 4:6). In this climate of opposition and faith-fuelled perseverance, individual rulers over surrounding districts lent both labour and influence to the project. Shallun represents one of these regional leaders whose cooperation demonstrated the unity of post-exilic Judah. Identity and Civic Authority Named as “Shallun son of Col-Hozeh, ruler of the district of Mizpah” (Nehemiah 3:15), he governed an area roughly eight kilometres north of Jerusalem. Mizpah had long been a strategic lookout and assembly point (1 Samuel 7:5-7; Jeremiah 40:6). By assigning a Mizpah official to the capital’s defences, Nehemiah strengthened both the wall and the relationship between Jerusalem and its satellite towns. Shallun’s involvement evidences broad-based support for the reforms extending beyond the city proper. The Fountain Gate and Surrounding Structures Shallun’s task focused on the Fountain Gate, the wall of the Pool of Shelah (also called Siloam), the King’s Garden, and “the steps that descend from the City of David” (Nehemiah 3:15). Situated on the southeastern slope, this gate controlled access to Jerusalem’s principal water source—the Gihon spring—critical for the city’s survival during siege. By rebuilding and roofing the gate and installing its doors, bolts, and bars, Shallun helped secure both physical sustenance and military resilience for the restored community. Symbolic and Theological Significance 1. Water as renewal. The restored Fountain Gate evokes themes of cleansing and life (Isaiah 12:3; John 7:37-38). Its reconstruction anticipates the promised “fountain…to cleanse them from sin and impurity” (Zechariah 13:1). Leadership and Ministry Lessons • Servant leadership: Though a district ruler, Shallun personally participates in manual labour, modelling humility (Matthew 20:26-28). Connections within Salvation History Shallun’s brief appearance illustrates how faithfully executed, seemingly minor assignments fit into the larger unfolding of redemption. Securing Jerusalem enabled the continued worship at the rebuilt temple, the preservation of Scripture, and the lineage through which Messiah would later enter the city. His name therefore stands as a witness that God accomplishes His purposes through ordinary believers who act decisively in their moment of opportunity. Key Reference Forms and Transliterations שַׁלּ֣וּן שלון šal·lūn šallūn shalLunLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Nehemiah 3:15 HEB: הָעַ֜יִן הֶ֠חֱזִיק שַׁלּ֣וּן בֶּן־ כָּל־ NAS: Shallum the son of Col-hozeh, KJV: repaired Shallun the son INT: of the fountain repaired Shallum the son of Col-hozeh 1 Occurrence |
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