by orthographical variation for בִּכּוּרָה; a first-ripe fig; firstripe.
Transliteration:bakkurâh
Pronunciation:bak-koo-raw'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term bakkurâh (בַּכֻּרָה), Strong's `{{H1073}}`, is identified as an orthographical variation of bikkûrâh (בִּכּוּרָה), which derives from the root `{{H1061}}` (בָּכַר), meaning "to be first-born" or "to bear first-fruits." Its primary semantic range centers on "a first-ripe fig" or, more broadly, anything that is "firstripe." This denotes the earliest and often most desirable produce of a season, particularly in the context of fruit trees. The word inherently carries connotations of newness, excellence, and a readiness for harvest or consumption.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term bakkurâh appears in two significant prophetic contexts within the Hebrew Bible, each illustrating distinct facets of its meaning:
1. **Nahum 3:12**: "All your fortresses are like fig trees with first-ripe figs; if they are shaken, they fall into the mouth of the eater." Here, the "first-ripe figs" (בַּכֻּרוֹת) serve as a vivid metaphor for the ease with which Nineveh's seemingly impregnable fortresses will be conquered. The imagery evokes a fruit so ripe and abundant that it requires minimal effort to dislodge and consume, symbolizing the swift and inevitable downfall of the Assyrian capital before the Lord's judgment. The readiness of the figs for consumption underscores Nineveh's readiness for destruction.
2. **Jeremiah 24:2**: "One basket had very good figs, like the figs that are first-ripe; and the other basket had very bad figs, which could not be eaten, they were so bad." In this prophetic vision, the "first-ripe figs" (בַּכֻּרוֹת) represent the exiles from Judah who had been carried away to Babylon, specifically King Jeconiah and the leading citizens. These are contrasted with the "bad figs," representing King Zedekiah, the remaining inhabitants of Jerusalem, and those who fled to Egypt. The "first-ripe" quality here signifies divine favor, a chosen remnant, and the promise of future restoration and blessing, despite their current exile. It highlights the Lord's discerning judgment and His redemptive purpose for a specific segment of His people.
### Related Words & Concepts
bakkurâh is intimately connected to a cluster of Hebrew words revolving around the concept of "firstness" and "firstfruits." Key related terms include:
* **bikkûrâh (בִּכּוּרָה)**: The direct orthographical variant, also meaning "first-ripe fig" or "firstfruit."
* **bikkûrîm (בִּכּוּרִים)** `{{H1061}}`: Plural form, referring to "firstfruits" in general, often associated with agricultural offerings presented to God (e.g., [[Exodus 23:19]], [[Deuteronomy 26:2]]). This broader concept emphasizes the dedication of the earliest and best of the harvest to the Lord.
* **b'khor (בְּכוֹר)** `{{H1062}}`: "Firstborn," referring to the first-born son or animal, which also held a special status and was often consecrated to the Lord.
* **b'khorah (בְּכוֹרָה)** `{{H1063}}`: "Birthright," the special privilege and inheritance of the firstborn.
The imagery of the fig tree itself is significant in biblical literature, often symbolizing prosperity, peace, and the nation of Israel ([[Micah 4:4]], [[Hosea 9:10]]). The "first-ripe fig" thus becomes a potent symbol of the earliest manifestation of either blessing or judgment.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of bakkurâh is multifaceted, touching upon themes of divine sovereignty, discernment, and redemptive purpose:
1. **Divine Judgment and Sovereignty**: In Nahum, the "first-ripe figs" underscore the absolute certainty and ease of God's judgment upon wicked nations. Nineveh's seemingly formidable defenses are rendered utterly vulnerable, ripe for destruction at the Lord's command. This illustrates God's sovereign control over the rise and fall of empires.
2. **Divine Discrimination and Restoration**: Jeremiah's vision profoundly reveals God's ability to discern between different groups within His covenant people. The "first-ripe figs" represent those whom God has chosen to preserve and restore, even amidst widespread judgment. This speaks to God's faithfulness to His promises, His capacity to work through adversity, and His commitment to a remnant for future blessing. It highlights the concept of divine grace that distinguishes and preserves.
3. **Quality and Readiness**: The inherent quality of being "first-ripe" conveys excellence and desirability. Theologically, this can imply that what God designates as "first-ripe" is of superior value in His eyes, whether it be a people chosen for His purposes or a situation ready for His decisive intervention. It speaks to a divine timing and a state of preparation, whether for blessing or for reckoning.
### Summary
bakkurâh (בַּכֻּרָה), `{{H1073}}`, refers to the "first-ripe fig," a potent symbol in biblical prophecy. As an orthographical variant of bikkûrâh and related to the concept of bikkûrîm (firstfruits), it signifies that which is earliest, choicest, and ready for a decisive moment. In Nahum, it portrays the ease and certainty of divine judgment, as Nineveh's fortresses are like figs ripe for the taking. In Jeremiah, it represents God's discerning favor and the promise of restoration for a chosen remnant among the exiles, contrasting them with the "bad figs" destined for further judgment. The term thus encapsulates themes of divine sovereignty, precise judgment, and the Lord's faithful preservation of His people, all rooted in the imagery of the initial, excellent produce of the land.
TRV