Tikvah, also referred to as Tikvath, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament. He is recognized primarily as the father of Shallum, who was the husband of the prophetess Huldah. The name "Tikvah" is derived from the Hebrew word meaning "hope" or "expectation," which is fitting given the significant role his family played during a pivotal moment in Judah's history.

Biblical References:

Tikvah is mentioned in the context of the religious reforms initiated during the reign of King Josiah of Judah. The primary reference to Tikvah is found in 2 Kings 22:14 and 2 Chronicles 34:22. These passages describe the events surrounding the discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple by Hilkiah the priest. Upon this discovery, King Josiah sent a delegation to inquire of the LORD concerning the words of the book. This delegation included Hilkiah, Ahikam, Acbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah, who went to consult Huldah the prophetess.

2 Kings 22:14 states: "So Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Acbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, the keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the Second District."

Similarly, 2 Chronicles 34:22 records: "So Hilkiah and those the king had sent went and spoke to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum son of Tokhath, the son of Hasrah, the keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the Second District."

Historical and Theological Context:

Tikvah's mention in the biblical narrative, though brief, is significant due to his connection to Huldah, a respected prophetess in Jerusalem. Huldah's prophecy confirmed the impending judgment on Judah due to the nation's disobedience but also assured King Josiah of peace during his reign because of his humility and repentance. This moment was crucial in the religious reforms Josiah implemented, which sought to restore true worship and adherence to the covenant with God.

The role of Tikvah's family, particularly through Huldah, highlights the importance of prophetic voices in guiding the spiritual direction of the nation. It underscores the belief in divine revelation and the necessity of aligning the nation's practices with God's commandments.

Cultural and Genealogical Insights:

Tikvah's lineage is noted in the genealogical records, emphasizing the importance of family heritage and roles within the community. His son Shallum served as the "keeper of the wardrobe," a position that likely involved the care and maintenance of the royal garments, indicating a trusted role within the king's court.

The mention of Tikvah and his family in the biblical text reflects the interconnectedness of various families and their contributions to the religious and social fabric of ancient Israel. It also illustrates the broader theme of hope and expectation, as embodied in Tikvah's name, which resonates with the prophetic message of renewal and reform during Josiah's reign.

In summary, Tikvah, though a minor figure in the biblical narrative, is part of a significant moment in Judah's history, representing the hope and expectation of divine guidance and reform through the faithful actions of his family and the prophetic ministry of Huldah.2 Kings 22:14
So Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam, and Achbor, and Shaphan, and Asahiah, went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe; (now she dwelled in Jerusalem in the college;) and they communed with her.
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2 Chronicles 34:22
And Hilkiah, and they that the king had appointed, went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvath, the son of Hasrah, keeper of the wardrobe; (now she dwelled in Jerusalem in the college:) and they spoke to her to that effect.
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