Calcol is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of wisdom literature. He is noted for his exceptional wisdom, which is highlighted in comparison to the wisdom of King Solomon. Calcol is referenced in 1 Kings 4:31, which states: "For he was wiser than all men—wiser than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, Calcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol. And his fame spread throughout the surrounding nations."

Genealogy and Background

Calcol is identified as one of the sons of Mahol. The name "Calcol" is of Hebrew origin, and while the exact meaning is uncertain, it is often associated with wisdom and skill. The mention of his father, Mahol, suggests a family lineage known for intellectual and possibly musical or poetic contributions, as Mahol is sometimes linked to music or dance in Hebrew tradition.

Wisdom and Reputation

The primary biblical reference to Calcol emphasizes his wisdom, placing him among a group of wise men whose understanding was renowned in ancient Israel. This group includes Ethan the Ezrahite, Heman, and Darda, all of whom are noted for their intellectual contributions. The comparison to Solomon, who is celebrated for his unparalleled wisdom, serves to underscore the high regard in which Calcol's wisdom was held.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, wisdom was a highly valued trait, often associated with governance, justice, and the ability to solve complex problems. The wisdom of individuals like Calcol would have been instrumental in advising leaders and contributing to the cultural and intellectual life of the nation. The mention of Calcol alongside other wise men suggests a tradition of wisdom literature and thought that was influential in shaping the moral and ethical teachings of the time.

Legacy and Influence

While Calcol himself is not a central figure in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the list of wise men highlights the broader tradition of wisdom that permeates the Old Testament. This tradition is reflected in the wisdom literature of the Bible, including books like Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Job, which explore themes of knowledge, understanding, and the fear of the Lord as the foundation of true wisdom.

Calcol's legacy, therefore, is tied to the enduring value placed on wisdom in the biblical tradition, serving as a reminder of the importance of intellectual and spiritual insight in the life of faith. His mention in the scriptures, though brief, contributes to the rich tapestry of biblical characters who exemplify the pursuit of wisdom and understanding.Calcol

nourishing

Calcol

(sustenance), a man of Judah, son or descendant of Zerah. (1 Chronicles 2:6) Probably identical with CHALCOL.

(1 Chronicles 2:6), sustenance, the same probably as Chalcol (1 Kings 4:31), one of the four sages whom Solomon excelled in wisdom; for "he was wiser than all men." CALCOL; CHALKOL

kal'-kol, kal'-kol (kalkol): Mentioned in 1 Kings 4:31 as one of the wise men with whom Solomon was compared. The better orthography is Calcol which the King James Version gives for the same name in 1 Chronicles 2:6. In the former passage, Calcol is the son of Mahol, while in the latter he is called the son of Zerah of the tribe of Judah, and a brother of Heman and Ethan.

3633. Kalkol -- an Israelite noted for his wisdom
... 3632, 3633. Kalkol. 3634 . an Israelite noted for his wisdom. Transliteration:
Kalkol Phonetic Spelling: (kal-kole') Short Definition: Calcol. ... Calcol, Chalcol ...
/hebrew/3633.htm - 6k

The Hebrew Sages and their Proverbs
... (31) For he was wiser than all men: than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, Calcol,
Darda, the sons of Mahol, and his fame was in all the surrounding nations. ...
/.../the origin and permanent value of the old testament/x the hebrew sages and.htm

Calcol (2 Occurrences)
... men.". Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. CALCOL; CHALKOL. kal'-kol ... Heman and
Ethan. Multi-Version Concordance Calcol (2 Occurrences). ...
/c/calcol.htm - 7k

Chalkol
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia CALCOL; CHALKOL. kal'-kol, kal'-kol (kalkol):
Mentioned in 1 Kings 4:31 as one of the wise men with whom Solomon was compared. ...
/c/chalkol.htm - 6k

Ethan (9 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 4:31 For he was wiser than all men; than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman,
and Calcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol: and his fame was in all the nations ...
/e/ethan.htm - 10k

Darda (2 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 4:31 For he was wiser than all men; than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman,
and Calcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol: and his fame was in all the nations ...
/d/darda.htm - 7k

Calculate (7 Occurrences)

/c/calculate.htm - 9k

Calamus (5 Occurrences)

/c/calamus.htm - 9k

Heman (17 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 4:31 For he was wiser than all men; than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman,
and Calcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol: and his fame was in all the nations ...
/h/heman.htm - 14k

Wiser (11 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 4:31 For he was wiser than all men; than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman,
and Calcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol: and his fame was in all the nations ...
/w/wiser.htm - 9k

Ezrahite (5 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 4:31 For he was wiser than all men; than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman,
and Calcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol: and his fame was in all the nations ...
/e/ezrahite.htm - 9k

How did God respond when Solomon asked for wisdom? | GotQuestions.org

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