by reduplication from בָּר; a fowl (as fattened on grain); fowl.
Transliteration:barbur
Pronunciation:bar-boor'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term בַּרְבֻּר (barbur, `{{H1257}}`) is a rare lexeme, appearing only once in the Hebrew Bible. Its core meaning, derived from its etymology, points to a specific type of fowl. The base definition indicates a connection to בָּר (bar, `{{H1250}}`), which can signify "grain" or "pure." The reduplication in בַּרְבֻּר strongly suggests a connection to the former meaning, implying a "fowl fattened on grain." This denotes a bird that has been specifically raised and prepared for consumption, likely indicating a plump, high-quality, and perhaps luxurious food item. The semantic range is therefore quite narrow, focusing on a domesticated bird, likely poultry, distinguished by its rich quality due to its diet.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole occurrence of בַּרְבֻּר (barbur, `{{H1257}}`) is found in [[1 Kings 4:23]]. This verse describes the daily provisions for King Solomon's royal table, enumerating the vast quantities and varieties of food required to sustain his household. The passage reads: "ten fat oxen, and twenty oxen out of the pastures, and a hundred sheep, besides harts, and roebucks, and fallow deer, and fattened fowl." In this context, the "fattened fowl" (בַּרְבֻּר) stands alongside other choice meats and delicacies, underscoring the immense wealth, prosperity, and elaborate scale of Solomon's kingdom. The inclusion of such a specific and likely expensive food item highlights the opulence and abundance that characterized Solomon's reign, a period often depicted as the zenith of Israelite material glory and peace. The careful listing of these provisions emphasizes the king's grandeur and the divine blessing upon his rule.
### Related Words & Concepts
The etymological link to בָּר (bar, `{{H1250}}`), meaning "grain" or "corn," is fundamental to understanding בַּרְבֻּר (barbur, `{{H1257}}`). This connection directly informs the "fattened on grain" aspect of the fowl. Other general terms for birds or flying creatures in Hebrew include עוֹף (oph, `{{H5775}}`) and צִפּוֹר (tsippor, `{{H6833}}`). However, בַּרְבֻּר is distinct in its specific emphasis on a bird prepared for consumption, akin to the concept of a "fatling" (e.g., מְרִיא, meri', `{{H4806}}` for animals). The term is conceptually related to other words describing abundance and provision, such as those detailing the richness of the land or the blessings of a fruitful harvest. In a broader sense, it connects to the theme of royal sustenance and the display of kingly power and prestige through lavish provisions, as seen in other ancient Near Eastern texts describing royal courts.
### Theological Significance
While בַּרְבֻּר (barbur, `{{H1257}}`) does not carry inherent theological weight in the same way as terms like "covenant" or "holiness," its contextual placement in [[1 Kings 4:23]] imbues it with significant theological implications. The abundance of "fattened fowl" and other provisions for Solomon's table serves as a tangible manifestation of God's blessing and the fulfillment of His promises to David concerning a prosperous and peaceful kingdom under his son. Solomon's reign, characterized by unparalleled wisdom, peace, and material wealth, is presented as a period of divine favor. The luxurious diet, including בַּרְבֻּר, symbolizes the overflowing provision of God to His chosen king and nation, reflecting a time when Israel enjoyed great favor and rest. It points to the Lord's capacity to provide beyond measure for His people when they walk in obedience, showcasing the earthly blessings that can accompany covenant faithfulness.
### Summary
The Hebrew word בַּרְבֻּר (barbur, `{{H1257}}`) refers to a "fattened fowl," likely a domesticated bird reared specifically for its rich meat, as indicated by its etymological link to "grain." Its singular appearance in [[1 Kings 4:23]] is highly significant, placing it among the luxurious daily provisions for King Solomon's royal court. In this context, בַּרְבֻּר functions as a symbol of the extraordinary wealth, abundance, and prosperity that characterized Solomon's reign, a period divinely blessed with peace and material splendor. Though a rare term, its presence underscores the lavishness of the kingdom and serves as a testament to God's bountiful provision for His people during a golden age in Israel's history.
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