### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bikkûwrâh**, represented by `{{H1063}}`, refers to **the early fig** or **firstripe (fruit)**. It is a specific term that appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, used metaphorically to signify something highly desirable and of initial importance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H1063}}` is used to express concepts of divine favor and spiritual longing. In Hosea, God describes His initial view of Israel's ancestors "as the **firstripe** in the fig tree at her first time," indicating how precious and pleasing they were to Him at the beginning [[Hosea 9:10]]. Conversely, Micah uses the term in a lament over the nation's spiritual barrenness, stating his soul "desired the **firstripe fruit**" in a time when there was nothing good left to be found, much like a field after the harvest [[Micah 7:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related agricultural terms provide a richer context for the meaning of `{{H1063}}`:
* `{{H7019}}` **qayits** (summer (fruit, house)): This word for summer fruit appears in [[Micah 7:1]], establishing a scene of harvest and gathering that contrasts with the prophet’s fruitless search for righteousness.
* `{{H5955}}` **ʻôlêlâh** ((gleaning) (of the) grapes, grapegleanings): Used directly alongside `{{H1063}}` in [[Micah 7:1]], the term for leftover **grapegleanings** highlights the scarcity and lack of substance, making the desired **firstripe fruit** all the more significant.
* `{{H6025}}` **ʻênâb** ((ripe) grape, wine): In [[Hosea 9:10]], Israel is found like **grapes** in the wilderness, a parallel image to their fathers being seen as the **firstripe** fig. Both terms symbolize a delightful and precious discovery.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1063}}` centers on its use as a powerful metaphor for God's relationship with His people.
* **Symbol of Divine Favor:** The term represents the initial, cherished state of Israel's ancestors in God's eyes. To be the **firstripe** was to be seen as special, promising, and a source of delight to the Creator [[Hosea 9:10]].
* **Representation of Righteousness:** In a state of spiritual decline, the **firstripe fruit** becomes a symbol for the righteousness and goodness that is painfully absent. The prophet's longing for it is a longing for a return to spiritual integrity [[Micah 7:1]].
* **A Mark of Beginnings:** The word intrinsically points to a beginning or "first time." This emphasizes the tragedy of Israel's subsequent falling away, as mentioned in [[Hosea 9:10]], where the people who were once the **firstripe** later "separated themselves unto that shame."
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1063}}` is far more than a simple agricultural term. It serves as a poignant symbol in the prophetic writings, capturing both the profound value of a nation's hopeful beginnings and the deep sorrow of its spiritual decay. It powerfully illustrates how a tangible object like the **firstripe** fig can represent intangible spiritual realities, from the delight God takes in His people to the desperate longing for righteousness in a fallen world.
TRV