The Hebrew word beker, represented by H1070, specifically means a young camel or dromedary. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its definition suggests a connection to youthfulness, distinguishing it as a specific type of camel.
The sole appearance of H1070 is in the prophecy of Isaiah 60:6. The verse describes a future time of glory for Zion, stating, "The multitude of camels shall cover thee, the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah; all they from Sheba shall come: they shall bring gold and incense; and they shall shew forth the praises of the LORD." In this context, the dromedaries are part of a massive caravan arriving from distant lands, symbolizing the influx of wealth and worship from the nations.
Several related words from its context in Isaiah 60:6 provide a fuller picture:
- H1581 gâmâl (a camel): This is the general term for camel and appears alongside H1070 to emphasize the great number of these animals. Camels are frequently mentioned as a measure of significant wealth (Genesis 24:35, Job 1:3).
- H8229 shiphʻâh (copiousness; abundance, company, multitude): This word, translated as multitude, conveys the immense scale of the caravan of camels and dromedaries, highlighting the overwhelming nature of the tribute being brought to Zion.
- H4080 Midyân (Midjan, a son of Abraham; also his country and (collectively) his descendants): This term identifies the origin of the dromedaries. The Midianites were descendants of Abraham through Keturah Genesis 25:4.
- H5891 ʻÊyphâh (Ephah, the name of a son of Midian, and of the region settled by him): Also listed as a source of the dromedaries, Ephah was a son of Midian, further specifying the people bringing these gifts Genesis 25:4.
- H7614 Shᵉbâʼ (Sheba, the name of three early progenitors of tribes and of an Ethiopian district): The people from Sheba are noted as bringing gold, linking this region with valuable tribute 1 Kings 10:1.
The theological weight of H1070 is derived entirely from its single prophetic context.
- Wealth of Nations: The dromedaries carrying gold and incense symbolize the wealth and honor of the Gentile nations being brought in devotion to the LORD.
- Gentile Worship: The arrival of these animals from Midian H4080, Ephah H5891, and Sheba H7614 signifies that peoples outside of Israel will come to worship God, bringing their finest resources as offerings.
- Prophetic Restoration: The vision of a multitude of dromedaries is part of a larger prophecy of Zion's restoration, where the world recognizes God's sovereignty and comes to "shew forth the praises of the LORD" Isaiah 60:6.
In summary, while H1070 beker is a rare term, its single usage is powerful. It functions as a specific and vivid detail within a grand prophetic vision. It is more than just an animal; in Isaiah 60:6, the dromedary represents the willing tribute of the nations and the future inclusion of Gentiles in the worship of God, all contributing to a picture of magnificent restoration and divine honor.
TRV