The Hebrew word zâkûwr, represented by H2138, refers to a male. It appears 4 times in 4 unique verses in the Bible. The term is used specifically for males, including men-children, to denote a particular group within the context of commands or actions.
In the biblical narrative, H2138 is used in two primary contexts. The first establishes a specific religious duty for all males to appear before the Lord God at set times. This command is repeated, emphasizing its importance (Exodus 23:17, Deuteronomy 16:16). The term is also translated as men children in this context Exodus 34:23. The second context is military, where the command is to smite every male in a captured city as an act of judgment Deuteronomy 20:13.
Several related words clarify the context in which H2138 is used:
- H7969 shâlôwsh (three): This primitive number is used to specify the required frequency of appearance for the males, establishing a precise religious calendar (Deuteronomy 16:16, Exodus 23:17).
- H6471 paʻam (time(-s)): Paired with H7969, this word means times, creating the specific instruction "three times" a year for the males to appear before God (Exodus 23:17, Deuteronomy 16:16).
- H7200 râʼâh (appear, see): This verb describes the action the males must perform. It means to appear or be seen before the Lord, highlighting a required presence at specified feasts (Exodus 34:23, Deuteronomy 16:16).
The use of H2138 carries specific theological weight, particularly regarding covenantal responsibility and identity.
- Mandatory Pilgrimage: The command for all males to appear before the Lord three times a year establishes a central, recurring act of national worship and remembrance. This duty is tied to key feasts like the feast of unleavened bread, the feast of weeks, and the feast of tabernacles Deuteronomy 16:16.
- Covenant Representation: The term designates the males or men children Exodus 34:23 as the representatives of the nation in these formal religious gatherings before God.
- Judgment in Warfare: In the context of holy war, the word male is used to single out a specific group for judgment, as commanded after the LORD thy God hath delivered a city into thine hands Deuteronomy 20:13.
In summary, H2138 is a specific term designating a male. While it appears only four times, it is used in contexts of great importance: the mandated national worship at annual feasts and the laws of conduct in warfare. The word precisely defines the group to whom these specific and weighty commands are given, underscoring their role in the religious and civil life of Israel.
TRV