of uncertain derivation; Barkos, one of the Nethimim; Barkos.
Transliteration:Barqôwç
Pronunciation:bar-kose'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1302}}` (Barqôwç) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates an uncertain derivation, meaning its etymological root and intrinsic semantic content are not readily discernible. As a proper noun, its primary "meaning" is to identify an individual or, in this case, a family line within the biblical record. It does not carry a broader semantic range of concepts or actions, unlike verbs or common nouns. Its significance lies solely in its function as a unique identifier for one of the Nethinim, a group dedicated to temple service.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Barqowc appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, always in the context of post-exilic lists of those who returned from Babylonian captivity to Judah. Both occurrences are found in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah:
* [[Ezra 2:53]]: "the children of Barkos, the children of Sisera, the children of Temah," are listed among the Nethinim who returned with Zerubbabel. This verse is part of a comprehensive register of families and groups that formed the initial wave of returnees.
* [[Nehemiah 7:55]]: "the children of Barkos, the children of Sisera, the children of Temah," appears again in a parallel list. Nehemiah's list largely mirrors that of Ezra 2, serving as a record of those who came back to rebuild Jerusalem and its temple.
In both contexts, Barqowc is identified as one of the "children" or descendants, indicating a family or clan rather than a single individual, who belonged to the Nethinim. The Nethinim were a class of temple servants, often considered to be non-Israelite in origin, who performed the more menial tasks associated with the sanctuary. Their inclusion in these vital lists underscores their integral role in the re-establishment of the community and the temple worship after the exile. The precise ordering within these lists, often grouping specific Nethinim families together, suggests an organized and recognized structure within this community.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related concept to `{{H1302}}` is that of the **Nethinim** (Hebrew: *nethînîm*, from the verb *nathan* `{{H5414}}`, "to give" or "to dedicate"). This term denotes "those given" or "dedicated" to the service of the temple. They are frequently mentioned alongside other temple personnel like priests and Levites, albeit in a subordinate role. Their origins are often traced back to the Gibeonites (cf. [[Joshua 9:27]]) and possibly other non-Israelite groups who were incorporated into Israel's service to God.
Other related concepts include:
* **Return from Exile:** The context of Ezra and Nehemiah emphasizes the divine initiative in bringing the exiles back to their land to re-establish the covenant community and temple worship. The inclusion of the Nethinim highlights the diverse composition of this returning community.
* **Temple Service:** The Nethinim, including the "children of Barkos," were crucial for the practical functioning of the Second Temple. Their tasks likely involved drawing water, cutting wood, and other manual labors necessary for the daily sacrifices and maintenance of the sacred space.
* **Genealogical Lists:** The meticulous recording of names like Barqowc in these lists underscores the importance of lineage and community identity in post-exilic Israel, reflecting a divine concern for every individual and group within the covenant people.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H1302}}` is merely a name of uncertain derivation, its inclusion in the biblical record carries profound theological significance.
1. **God's Meticulous Providence and Remembrance:** The very presence of such a seemingly minor name in the inspired text speaks to God's meticulous attention to detail and His remembrance of all who serve Him, regardless of their perceived status. Every individual, even those performing humble tasks, is known and valued by God.
2. **Inclusivity of God's People:** The Nethinim, including the family of Barqowc, were likely of non-Israelite descent. Their integration into the temple service and their return from exile alongside the priests and Levites demonstrate God's capacity and desire to incorporate diverse peoples into His covenant community. This prefigures the broader inclusion of Gentiles in the New Covenant.
3. **Value of All Service:** The Nethinim performed essential, albeit often unglamorous, tasks. Their inclusion in these sacred registers elevates the dignity of all forms of service rendered to God. It teaches that every contribution, no matter how humble, is vital for the flourishing of God's work and community.
4. **Restoration and Rebuilding:** The return of the Nethinim, along with other groups, was integral to the restoration of Judah and the rebuilding of the temple. Their presence signifies the comprehensive nature of God's plan for His people after the desolation of exile, emphasizing that all necessary components were brought back to re-establish a functioning society centered on worship.
### Summary
`{{H1302}}` (Barqôwç) is a proper noun identifying a family of Nethinim, temple servants, who returned from Babylonian exile. Appearing twice in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah ([[Ezra 2:53]], [[Nehemiah 7:55]]), its primary function is to record the presence of this specific lineage within the post-exilic community. While its etymological meaning is uncertain, its biblical occurrences underscore several theological truths: God's meticulous care for all His people, the inclusivity of His covenant community which embraces even those of non-Israelite origin dedicated to His service, and the inherent value of all contributions, no matter how humble, to the work of God's kingdom and the restoration of His worship. The family of Barqowc represents a vital, though often overlooked, component in the grand narrative of God's redemptive plan.
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