Nehemiah 3:15

The Fountain Gate was repaired by Shallun son of Col-hozeh, ruler of the district of Mizpah. He rebuilt it, roofed it, and installed its doors, bolts, and bars. He also repaired the wall of the Pool of Shelah near the king's garden, as far as the stairs that descend from the City of David.

Study Bible

Shallun son of Col-Hozeh
The name "Shallun" is derived from the Hebrew root "shalom," meaning peace or completeness. This reflects the role of Shallun as a restorer, bringing completeness to the broken walls of Jerusalem. "Col-Hozeh" means "all-seeing," suggesting a lineage of vision and insight, which is fitting for a leader involved in the restoration of the city. The mention of his lineage emphasizes the importance of family heritage and the continuation of faithfulness across generations.

ruler of the district of Mizpah
Mizpah, meaning "watchtower" in Hebrew, was a significant location in Israel's history, often serving as a place of gathering and judgment. As a ruler, Shallun held a position of authority and responsibility, indicating that the work of rebuilding was not just a physical task but also a spiritual and communal duty. His leadership in this district underscores the collaborative effort required in the restoration process.

repaired the Fountain Gate
The Fountain Gate was crucial for access to water, symbolizing life and sustenance. In the spiritual context, water often represents purification and the Holy Spirit. The act of repairing this gate signifies the restoration of spiritual vitality and the importance of maintaining access to the source of life, both physically and spiritually.

He rebuilt it, roofed it, and installed its doors, bolts, and bars
This detailed description of the reconstruction process highlights the thoroughness and care taken in the restoration. Each element—rebuilding, roofing, and installing doors, bolts, and bars—represents a layer of protection and security. Spiritually, this can be seen as a metaphor for safeguarding one's faith and community against external threats and ensuring the integrity of one's spiritual life.

He also repaired the wall of the Pool of Shelah
The Pool of Shelah, also known as the Pool of Siloam, was a significant water source in Jerusalem. The Hebrew root "shalah" means "to send," which is fitting as the pool was used for sending water throughout the city. This repair work symbolizes the restoration of provision and blessing, ensuring that the life-giving water could reach all parts of the community.

near the king’s garden
The king's garden represents a place of beauty and cultivation, often associated with peace and prosperity. Its proximity to the repair work suggests that the restoration efforts were not only about fortification but also about restoring the beauty and order of God's creation. This reflects the holistic nature of God's redemptive work, which encompasses both protection and flourishing.

as far as the stairs that descend from the City of David
The City of David is a term for the ancient core of Jerusalem, symbolizing the heart of Israel's spiritual and political life. The mention of the stairs descending from this city indicates a connection between the past and the present, linking the restoration work to the rich heritage of Davidic leadership. It serves as a reminder of God's enduring promises and the continuity of His covenant with His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shallun
The son of Col-Hozeh and ruler of the district of Mizpah. He played a significant role in the rebuilding efforts of Jerusalem's walls, specifically the Fountain Gate.

2. Col-Hozeh
The father of Shallun, mentioned here to identify Shallun's lineage and possibly his authority or influence.

3. Mizpah
A district in Judah, over which Shallun was a ruler. Mizpah is historically significant as a place of gathering and covenant renewal in Israel's history.

4. Fountain Gate
One of the gates of Jerusalem, significant for its proximity to water sources, which were vital for the city's sustenance and defense.

5. Pool of Shelah
Also known as the Pool of Siloam, an important water source in Jerusalem, located near the King’s Garden.

6. King’s Garden
A notable area in Jerusalem, likely a royal garden, indicating the importance of the location Shallun was working on.

7. City of David
The oldest settled area of Jerusalem, named after King David, who established it as the capital of Israel.

Teaching Points

Leadership and Responsibility
Shallun, as a ruler, took personal responsibility for the repair work. Leaders are called to be actively involved in the work they oversee, setting an example for others.

Community Involvement
The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls was a communal effort. Each person had a role, demonstrating the importance of unity and cooperation in achieving a common goal.

Spiritual Renewal
Just as the physical walls were rebuilt, believers are called to examine and repair the spiritual "walls" of their lives, ensuring they are fortified against spiritual attacks.

Significance of Water
Water is a recurring symbol of life and purification in Scripture. The repair of the Fountain Gate and Pool of Shelah underscores the necessity of spiritual sustenance and cleansing.

Historical Continuity
The mention of the City of David and the King’s Garden connects the present work to the rich history of God's people, reminding us of the importance of heritage and legacy in our faith journey.

Bible Study Questions

1. What qualities of leadership can we learn from Shallun's involvement in the rebuilding of the Fountain Gate?

2. How does the communal effort in Nehemiah 3 reflect the New Testament teaching on the body of Christ working together?

3. In what ways can we identify and repair the "gates" and "walls" in our spiritual lives that may be broken or neglected?

4. How does the strategic importance of water in Jerusalem's history relate to the spiritual significance of water in the Bible?

5. What lessons can we draw from the historical continuity of Jerusalem's structures and apply them to maintaining our spiritual heritage today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 20:20
This verse mentions Hezekiah's construction of a pool and a tunnel to bring water into the city, which connects to the significance of the Pool of Shelah and the Fountain Gate in providing water to Jerusalem.

John 9:7
Jesus instructs a blind man to wash in the Pool of Siloam (Shelah), highlighting the pool's continued importance in New Testament times.

Isaiah 22:9-11
These verses describe the preparations made by Hezekiah to secure Jerusalem's water supply, emphasizing the strategic importance of water sources like the Pool of Shelah.