### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **baqbuq**, represented by `{{H1228}}`, refers to a **bottle** or **cruse**. Its name is derived from the gurgling sound made when emptying it. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses**, where it functions as both a common container and a potent prophetic symbol.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H1228}}` is used in two distinct contexts. In 1 Kings, it is a **cruse** used to carry **honey** `{{H1706}}` as part of a gift to a prophet [[1 Kings 14:3]]. In the book of Jeremiah, the word takes on a more dramatic role. God commands the prophet to get a **potter's** `{{H3335}}` **earthen** `{{H2789}}` **bottle** [[Jeremiah 19:1]]. This object is then used in a symbolic act, where Jeremiah is instructed to **break** `{{H7665}}` the **bottle** in the sight of the elders as a sign of impending judgment [[Jeremiah 19:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the meaning of `{{H1228}}` in its scriptural context:
* `{{H2789}}` **cheres** (a piece of pottery; earth(-en)): This word specifies the material of the bottle in Jeremiah's prophecy, highlighting its fragile, man-made nature [[Jeremiah 19:1]].
* `{{H7665}}` **shâbar** (to burst; break): This is the key action performed on the bottle, signifying destruction and a point of no return in the prophetic message [[Jeremiah 19:10]].
* `{{H1706}}` **dᵉbash** (honey): This is what the **cruse** contains in the narrative of 1 Kings, showing the object's use for carrying provisions or offerings [[1 Kings 14:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1228}}` is primarily derived from its use as a prophetic symbol in Jeremiah.
* **Vessel for a Purpose:** Whether carrying **honey** `{{H1706}}` to a prophet [[1 Kings 14:3]] or being carried to a place of judgment, the **bottle** serves a specific function ordained by a higher purpose.
* **Symbol of a Created People:** The object is explicitly a **potter's** `{{H3335}}` **earthen** `{{H2789}}` **bottle** [[Jeremiah 19:1]]. This connects to the theme of God as the Potter and His people as the work of His hands, who are ultimately accountable to their maker.
* **Representation of Judgment:** The command to **break** `{{H7665}}` the bottle is a visceral and public illustration of divine judgment. Just as the **earthen** vessel is shattered beyond repair, so too would the nation be broken for its transgressions [[Jeremiah 19:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1228}}` transitions from a simple **cruse** for carrying goods to a powerful symbol of divine communication. Its use demonstrates how an ordinary object can be imbued with profound meaning. The **bottle** serves as a tangible representation of a people formed by a potter, and its shattering becomes an unforgettable sermon on the finality and public nature of God's judgment.
TRV