reduplicated from בָּקַר; searcher; Bakbakkar, an Israelite; Bakbakkar.
Transliteration:Baqbaqqar
Pronunciation:bak-bak-kar'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name בַּקְבַּקַּר (Baqbaqqar), Strong's number `{{H1230}}`, is a proper noun, a personal name. Its meaning is derived from a reduplication of the root בָּקַר (baqar), Strong's number `{{H1239}}`. The root בָּקַר fundamentally means "to inquire," "to search," "to seek out," "to examine," or "to care for" (as in inspecting a flock). The reduplicated form in Baqbaqqar often intensifies the action, suggesting a persistent or diligent searching. Thus, the name is typically understood to mean "searcher," "diligent inquirer," or "one who diligently searches." As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to its etymological root and the characteristics it implies for the individual bearing the name.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Baqbaqqar (בַּקְבַּקַּר) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Chronicles.
* **[[1 Chronicles 9:15]]**: "And Bakbakkar, Heresh, and Galal, and Mattaniah the son of Mica, the son of Zichri, the son of Asaph; and Obadiah the son of Shemaiah, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun; and Berechiah the son of Asa, the son of Elkanah, that dwelt in the villages of the Netophathites."
In this passage, Bakbakkar is listed among the Levites who returned from the Babylonian exile and resided in Jerusalem. Specifically, the context of [[1 Chronicles 9]] details the inhabitants of Jerusalem after the return, focusing on the priests, Levites, gatekeepers, and other temple servants. Bakbakkar is mentioned alongside other Levitical figures, including those associated with the temple service and, by extension, the musical and administrative duties within the sanctuary. While his specific role is not detailed beyond being a Levite, his inclusion in this roster underscores his participation in the re-establishment of worship and community life in post-exilic Jerusalem.
### Related Words & Concepts
The name Baqbaqqar is directly linked to the verbal root בָּקַר (baqar, `{{H1239}}`), which conveys several related concepts:
* **Inquiry and Examination**: The root is used for the act of careful investigation, such as a priest inspecting a skin disease ([[Leviticus 13:36]]) or a shepherd diligently seeking out his scattered flock ([[Ezekiel 34:11]]).
* **Seeking and Visiting**: It can also denote the act of visiting or seeking someone out, often with a purpose of care or inspection.
* **Morning (בֹּקֶר, boqer, `{{H1242}}`)**: Interestingly, the word for "morning" (boqer) also derives from this root, perhaps alluding to the time when one rises to begin the day's work, including searching for provisions or inspecting one's property. This connection subtly reinforces the idea of diligence and regularity.
* **Diligence and Service**: The reduplication in Baqbaqqar emphasizes a persistent or intensive form of searching, which aligns with the diligence required for Levitical service, whether in studying the Law, performing temple duties, or leading worship.
### Theological Significance
Though Baqbaqqar is a minor figure mentioned only once, the meaning of his name carries significant theological weight, especially within the context of the post-exilic community. The name "diligent inquirer" or "searcher" for a Levite returning to Jerusalem highlights a crucial spiritual posture.
1. **Commitment to Truth and Law**: In a period of national restoration and spiritual renewal, individuals whose names signify diligent inquiry would be vital. It suggests a commitment to searching out God's will, understanding His Law, and properly re-establishing the temple worship according to divine precepts.
2. **Faithful Service**: The Levites were tasked with the meticulous performance of sacred duties. A "diligent inquirer" would be one who carefully attends to the details of service, ensuring that worship is offered in a manner pleasing to God. This speaks to the broader theme of faithful and dedicated service within God's covenant people.
3. **Spiritual Vigilance**: The name can also imply a spiritual vigilance—a constant seeking after God and His ways, a characteristic essential for all who serve Him, particularly those in leadership or priestly roles. It underscores the importance of a heart that continually seeks to know God more deeply and to serve Him more faithfully.
### Summary
Baqbaqqar (`{{H1230}}`) is a unique Hebrew proper noun, a personal name meaning "searcher" or "diligent inquirer," derived from the reduplication of the root בָּקַר (baqar, `{{H1239}}`). He is mentioned only once in the biblical record, in [[1 Chronicles 9:15]], as a Levite who returned from the Babylonian exile and resided in Jerusalem, participating in the re-establishment of the community and temple service. The etymology of his name points to a life characterized by diligent inquiry and careful attention, qualities highly valued in the Levitical service. Though a seemingly minor figure, Baqbaqqar's name subtly underscores the theological importance of dedicated service, spiritual vigilance, and a persistent seeking after God's truth within the covenant community, particularly during a time of significant restoration.
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