the same as בֶּכֶר; Beker, the name of two Israelites; Becher.
Transliteration:Beker
Pronunciation:beh'-ker
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H1071}}` (בֶכֶר, *Beker*) is a proper noun, serving as a personal name. Its meaning is directly derived from its etymological root, which is `{{H1062}}` (בֶּכֶר, *beker*), meaning "first-born," "firstling," or "young camel." Therefore, the name "Beker" inherently carries connotations of primogeniture, preeminence, strength, or a unique, initial position. While the proper noun itself denotes an individual, its underlying semantic range points to the significant concept of the "first-born" within ancient Israelite culture and theology.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H1071}}` appears in the Hebrew Bible as the name of two distinct individuals, primarily within genealogical records:
1. **Becher, Son of Benjamin:** This individual is listed among the sons of Benjamin who went down to Egypt with Jacob ([[Genesis 46:21]]). He is also mentioned in the genealogical lists of the tribe of Benjamin in the Chronicler's history ([[1 Chronicles 7:6]], [[1 Chronicles 7:8]]), where his descendants are briefly noted. In these contexts, Becher is a foundational figure in the tribal lineage of Benjamin, contributing to the historical continuity and identity of one of Israel's twelve tribes.
2. **Becher, Son of Ephraim:** A different individual bearing the same name is listed as a son of Ephraim in the census taken in the plains of Moab ([[Numbers 26:35]]). His family, the Bachrites, are enumerated as a clan within the tribe of Ephraim. This occurrence places Becher within the context of the second generation after the Exodus, highlighting the growth and organization of the Israelite tribes before their entry into the Promised Land.
In both instances, the name "Beker" is found within lists that establish tribal identity, family structure, and historical continuity, underscoring the importance of lineage in the biblical narrative. The naming convention, possibly reflecting a hope or status associated with the "first-born," is a subtle but significant detail in these foundational records.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to `{{H1071}}` is its root:
* **`{{H1062}}` (בֶּכֶר, *beker*):** "First-born," "firstling," "young camel." This is the common noun from which the proper name is derived, directly linking "Beker" to the concept of the first-born.
Other related terms and concepts include:
* **`{{H1060}}` (בָּכַר, *bakar*):** The verbal root, meaning "to be first-born," "to bear the first-born."
* **`{{H1067}}` (בְּכוֹרָה, *bekorah*):** "Birthright," "primogeniture," referring to the special privileges and inheritance of the first-born.
* **`{{H1069}}` (בְּכוֹר, *bekor*):** "First-born," "firstling," often used to denote the eldest son or the first offspring.
These linguistic connections highlight the cultural significance of the first-born in ancient Israel, a concept laden with legal, social, and religious implications.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, `{{H1071}}` itself does not carry direct theological doctrine. However, its profound theological significance emerges from its etymological connection to the concept of the "first-born" (`{{H1062}}`), a theme woven throughout the biblical narrative:
1. **Covenantal Privilege and Responsibility:** The first-born held a position of honor and inherited a double portion of the father's estate, along with leadership responsibilities. This reflects a divine principle of order and succession.
2. **Redemption and Consecration:** The first-born of humans and animals were considered consecrated to the Lord ([[Exodus 13:2]], [[Exodus 13:12-15]]), requiring redemption or sacrifice. This points to God's claim over all life and the necessity of atonement.
3. **Israel as God's Firstborn:** The nation of Israel is uniquely called God's "firstborn son" ([[Exodus 4:22]]). This designation signifies their special election, covenantal relationship, and privileged status among the nations, carrying both blessings and responsibilities.
4. **Christ as the Ultimate Firstborn:** In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is repeatedly identified as the "firstborn" in various profound senses:
* "Firstborn over all creation" ([[Colossians 1:15]]), signifying His pre-existence, sovereignty, and unique relationship with the Father as the Creator and sustainer of all things.
* "Firstborn from the dead" ([[Colossians 1:18]]), highlighting His resurrection as the inauguration of the new creation and His preeminence in victory over death.
* "Firstborn among many brothers" ([[Romans 8:29]]), indicating His role as the prototype and leader of the redeemed community, through whom believers are conformed to His image.
Thus, while the individuals named "Beker" are minor figures in the grand biblical narrative, their name, rooted in "first-born," subtly echoes these profound theological truths of divine election, redemption, and the ultimate preeminence of Christ.
### Summary
`{{H1071}}` (בֶכֶר, *Beker*) is a Hebrew proper noun, serving as the name for two distinct Israelites: a son of Benjamin and a son of Ephraim. Its core meaning is derived from `{{H1062}}`, "first-born" or "firstling," implying connotations of prominence or an initial, significant position. Found primarily in genealogical lists ([[Genesis 46:21]], [[Numbers 26:35]], [[1 Chronicles 7:6]], [[1 Chronicles 7:8]]), its occurrences underscore the importance of lineage and tribal identity in ancient Israel. The theological significance of the name "Beker" is primarily indirect, drawing from the broader biblical concept of the "first-born." This concept is foundational to understanding covenantal privilege, the necessity of redemption, Israel's unique status before God, and ultimately, the supreme preeminence and redemptive work of Jesus Christ as the ultimate "Firstborn" in creation, resurrection, and the new humanity.
TRV