### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bikkûwr**, represented by `{{H1061}}`, designates the **first-fruits of the crop**. Appearing 18 times across 16 unique verses, its definition also includes "first fruit (-ripe (figuratively)), hasty fruit." The term is central to understanding agricultural offerings and holds both literal and figurative significance in the biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical law and narrative, `{{H1061}}` is primarily used in the context of sacred offerings. The Israelites were commanded to bring "the first of the firstfruits of thy land" into the house of the Lord, establishing a principle of giving God the initial and best part of the harvest ([[Exodus 23:19]]; [[Exodus 34:26]]). These offerings were specifically associated with holy observances like the Feast of Weeks, also called the "feast of harvest, the firstfruits of thy labours" ([[Exodus 23:16]]; [[Exodus 34:22]]). Beyond agricultural produce like grapes [[Numbers 13:20]] and wheat, the term could also refer to processed items, such as the two wave loaves brought as "the firstfruits unto the LORD" [[Leviticus 23:17]]. Figuratively, it describes the vulnerability of strongholds, comparing them to "fig trees with the firstripe figs" that easily fall when shaken [[Nahum 3:12]], or a desirable but fleeting thing, like the "hasty fruit before the summer" that is quickly eaten [[Isaiah 28:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of firstfruits:
* `{{H7225}}` **rêʼshîyth** (the first, in place, time, order or rank): This word often appears alongside `{{H1061}}` to emphasize the primacy of the offering, as seen in the phrase "The first of the firstfruits" [[Exodus 23:19]]. It denotes the very beginning or chief part.
* `{{H7105}}` **qâtsîyr** (harvest): This term refers to the broader event of reaping a crop. `{{H1061}}` is specifically the first part of this larger harvest, connecting the two concepts directly in passages like "the firstfruits of wheat harvest" [[Exodus 34:22]].
* `{{H6529}}` **pᵉrîy** (fruit): As the general term for fruit, this word provides the category from which firstfruits are taken. The command in [[Nehemiah 10:35]] is "to bring the firstfruits of our ground, and the firstfruits of all fruit of all trees."
* `{{H8641}}` **tᵉrûwmâh** (a present (as offered up), especially in sacrifice or as tribute): This describes a type of offering or oblation. Firstfruits were a kind of oblation, as seen in [[Ezekiel 44:30]], which mentions both "the first of all the firstfruits" and "every oblation."
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1061}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of faith and worship.
* **Divine Provision and Ownership:** Bringing the firstfruits to God was a tangible acknowledgment that He was the ultimate owner and provider of the land's produce ([[Exodus 23:19]]; [[Nehemiah 10:35]]).
* **Sustenance for the Priesthood:** The firstfruits were a primary means of support for the priests. The Lord designated these offerings for them, stating they "shall be the priest's" [[Ezekiel 44:30]] and "shall be thine" [[Numbers 18:13]].
* **The Principle of Consecration:** Offering the first part of the harvest consecrated the whole. In giving the first of their dough, the people would cause a "blessing to rest in thine house" [[Ezekiel 44:30]].
* **Symbol of Vulnerability:** In prophetic texts, the "hasty fruit" or "firstripe figs" symbolize something that is easily and quickly destroyed, serving as a metaphor for the impending judgment on a nation's pride ([[Isaiah 28:4]]; [[Nahum 3:12]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1061}}` **bikkûwr** is a term deeply embedded in the religious and economic life of ancient Israel. It moves beyond a simple agricultural label to represent a foundational act of worship: dedicating the first and best to God. This act affirmed God's sovereignty, provided for His ministers, and was believed to secure a blessing upon the rest of the harvest. As a metaphor, it powerfully illustrates concepts of transience and judgment, demonstrating its rich and layered significance in Scripture.
TRV