The Hebrew word bᵉkîyth, represented by H1068, is a specific term for a weeping; mourning. It is a very rare word, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its significance is therefore derived entirely from its single, focused application in scripture.
The sole appearance of H1068 is in Genesis 50:4, within the narrative of Joseph. The verse describes a specific, formal period of grief, referring to "the days of his mourning". The context makes it clear that this was a recognized duration of time that had a distinct end, as the days "were past" before Joseph took his next action of speaking to the house of Pharaoh.
Several related words in the verse help to frame the meaning of this period of mourning:
- H3117 yôwm (a day): This word, used in the phrase "the days of his mourning," defines grief as occurring within a measurable space of time. It often establishes a specific period, whether it is a "day of trouble" Nahum 1:7 or the entirety of one's life Deuteronomy 4:9.
- H5674 ʻâbar (to cross over): This root word signifies transition and is used to state that the days of mourning "were past." It denotes that a state or season has concluded, similar to its use for calamities being "overpast" Psalms 57:1 or indignation being "overpast" Isaiah 26:20.
- H559 ʼâmar (to say): This word for speaking marks the action that follows the conclusion of the mourning period. Once the time for H1068 is complete, Joseph proceeds to speak and make his request, showing a transition from grief to communication Genesis 50:4.
The theological weight of H1068 is derived from its unique context.
- A Measured Season of Sorrow: The term is explicitly linked with "days" H3117 that "were past" H5674, presenting mourning not as an endless state, but as a specific, measured period of time with a definite conclusion Genesis 50:4.
- The Transition from Grief to Duty: In Genesis 50:4, the end of the mourning period is the prerequisite for Joseph's subsequent actions. He completes the season of grief before he speaks H559 to Pharaoh's house, illustrating a pattern where grieving is honored before responsibilities are resumed.
- Expression of Loss: As its base definition suggests, H1068 captures the tangible expression of a weeping. Its singular use gives significant weight to this specific instance of mourning recorded in scripture.
In summary, H1068 bᵉkîyth provides a concise biblical model for a formal period of grief. Though it appears only once, its usage in Genesis 50:4 demonstrates that mourning is a respected and necessary season. It is framed by words that mark the passage of time, showing that this season of weeping has a purpose and an end, after which life and its duties continue.
TRV