from בָּכַר (in the sense of youth); a young camel; dromedary.
Transliteration:beker
Pronunciation:beh'-ker
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word בֶּכֶר (beker, `{{H1070}}`) is derived from the root בָּכַר (bakhar, `{{H1069}}`), which primarily signifies "to be first-born," "to bear early fruit," or "to show oneself as first." In the context of בֶּכֶר, this root imparts the sense of "youth" or "early stage." Therefore, בֶּכֶר specifically denotes a "young camel" or "dromedary." This term distinguishes it from older or more general camels, often implying a creature that is vigorous, strong, and in its prime, rather than merely immature. The dromedary, a single-humped camel, was a vital animal in the ancient Near East, known for its endurance and capacity for burden-bearing in arid environments.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term בֶּכֶר (beker, `{{H1070}}`) appears in several significant biblical passages, each contributing to its nuanced understanding:
* **[[Genesis 24:19]]**: In the account of Abraham's servant seeking a wife for Isaac, Rebekah offers to draw water not only for the servant's general "camels" (גְּמַלִּים, *gemallim*) but specifically for his "young camels" (בֶּכֶר). Her willingness to water ten such animals highlights her industriousness and hospitality, demonstrating a character trait that aligns with God's providential leading. The mention of "young camels" underscores the value and vitality of these particular animals, requiring significant effort to tend to them.
* **[[Judges 8:21]]**: After defeating the Midianite kings Zebah and Zalmunna, Gideon takes the "crescents" (שַׂהֲרֹנִים, *saharonim*) that were on the necks of their "camels" (בֶּכֶר). These ornaments signify the high status and wealth of the Midianite kings, as their camels, even the young ones, were adorned with valuable trappings. This passage illustrates the use of beker in the context of royal or aristocratic possessions, emphasizing their value beyond mere utility.
* **[[Isaiah 60:6]]**: This prophetic passage describes the future glory of Zion, stating, "Multitudes of camels shall cover you, the young camels (בֶּכֶר) of Midian and Ephah." Here, beker symbolizes the immense wealth and tribute that will flow into Jerusalem from the nations. The image conveys an overwhelming abundance of valuable resources, underscoring God's promise of prosperity and restoration for His people.
* **[[Jeremiah 2:23]]**: In a powerful and stark metaphor, the prophet Jeremiah rebukes Judah for its apostasy, asking, "How can you say, 'I am not defiled; I have not gone after the Baals'? Look at your way in the valley; know what you have done, you swift young camel (בֶּכֶר) running astray." This vivid imagery portrays Judah's uncontrolled, wild, and unrestrained pursuit of idolatry. The "swift young camel" (often understood as a female camel in heat) emphasizes their headlong, passionate, and unbridled departure from Yahweh, highlighting the depth of their spiritual promiscuity and rebellion.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of בֶּכֶר (beker, `{{H1070}}`) is enriched by examining its relationship to other Hebrew terms:
* **Root בָּכַר (bakhar, `{{H1069}}`):** The verbal root from which beker is derived, meaning "to be first-born," "to bear early fruit," or "to act as first-born." This connection highlights the "youth" or "early" aspect inherent in beker, often implying vigor or the initial stage of life.
* **בְּכוֹר (bekor, `{{H1060}}`):** Meaning "firstborn son" or "firstborn animal," this noun shares the same root and reinforces the concept of primogeniture, preeminence, or the initial/best of a kind. While beker specifically refers to a young camel, the shared linguistic heritage links it to broader themes of beginnings and importance.
* **גָּמָל (gamal, `{{H1581}}`):** This is the more general and common Hebrew term for "camel." beker serves as a more specific descriptor, emphasizing the animal's age and vitality, and sometimes its type (dromedary).
* **Animal Imagery:** The Bible frequently employs animal metaphors to convey spiritual or moral truths. The "young camel" in Jeremiah's prophecy is a potent example of how an animal's natural characteristics (swiftness, untamed nature, passionate wandering) are used to illustrate human spiritual conditions.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of בֶּכֶר (beker, `{{H1070}}`) is multifaceted, reflecting its varied biblical contexts:
* **Divine Provision and Blessing:** In the narrative of Rebekah, the presence and care for "young camels" underscore the extensive wealth and resources that God had bestowed upon Abraham, and which were now part of the dowry for Isaac. Rebekah's diligent service to these valuable animals is presented as a virtuous act, implicitly blessed by God as part of His providential plan for the covenant family.
* **Symbol of Wealth and Future Glory:** Isaiah's prophecy utilizes beker as a symbol of the abundant material blessings and tribute that will be brought to Zion in the eschatological age. This imagery speaks to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises of restoration and prosperity for His people, where even the most valuable possessions from the nations will be consecrated to Him.
* **Metaphor for Spiritual Apostasy and Wildness:** Perhaps the most profound theological use of beker is found in Jeremiah. Here, the "swift young camel running astray" serves as a devastating metaphor for Judah's spiritual infidelity. It vividly portrays their uncontrolled, passionate, and unbridled pursuit of idolatry, highlighting their stubborn refusal to remain faithful to the covenant with Yahweh. This imagery underscores the tragic consequences of spiritual wandering and the depth of human rebellion against divine truth.
* **God's Sovereignty over Creation:** Implicit in all uses of beker is the understanding that these creatures, like all of creation, are part of God's design. Their strength, endurance, and unique adaptations for desert life bear witness to the wisdom and power of the Creator.
### Summary
The Hebrew word בֶּכֶר (beker, `{{H1070}}`), derived from the root בָּכַר (bakhar, `{{H1069}}`), denotes a "young camel" or "dromedary," emphasizing its vigor and youth. Biblically, its occurrences reveal a rich semantic range. In narratives like that of Abraham's servant and Rebekah, beker signifies valuable possessions, highlighting divine provision and the virtuous character of those who diligently care for them ([[Genesis 24:19]]). In prophetic visions such as Isaiah's, the "young camels of Midian and Ephah" symbolize the future abundance and tribute that will flow into Zion, representing God's promised glory and prosperity ([[Isaiah 60:6]]). Most poignantly, in Jeremiah, beker is employed as a powerful metaphor for Judah's spiritual rebellion, likening their unbridled pursuit of idolatry to a "swift young camel running astray" ([[Jeremiah 2:23]]). Thus, beker transcends a mere zoological classification, serving as a potent symbol of blessing, wealth, and tragically, the untamed nature of human apostasy in its departure from God.
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