from זָכַר; mindful; Zakkur, the name of seven Israelites; Zaccur, Zacchur.
Transliteration:Zakkûwr
Pronunciation:zaw-koor'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word זַכּוּר (Zakkûwr), Strong's number `{{H2139}}`, is a proper noun derived directly from the verb זָכַר (zāḵar), Strong's number `{{H2142}}`, meaning "to remember," "to recall," or "to be mindful of." Consequently, the name Zakkûwr carries the intrinsic meaning of "mindful" or "one who remembers." As a personal name, its semantic range is tied to its etymological root, signifying a characteristic or a hope for the individual bearing the name – that they would be one who remembers or is remembered. This "remembering" in the biblical context often implies not merely a mental recollection but an active, responsive engagement with what is remembered, particularly in relation to covenant, commands, or divine acts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Zakkûwr appears in the Hebrew Bible as the name of seven distinct Israelites, underscoring its commonality and the significance of its underlying meaning.
1. **Numbers 13:4**: Zakkûwr is identified as the son of Machi, representing the tribe of Reuben among the twelve spies sent by Moses to scout the land of Canaan. His inclusion in this critical mission highlights the importance of "mindful" and observant individuals for such a task.
2. **1 Chronicles 4:26**: Here, Zakkûwr is listed as a son of Mishma, a descendant of Simeon. This genealogical reference places him within the tribal lineage, though no specific actions are attributed to him.
3. **1 Chronicles 25:10**: Zakkûwr is mentioned as the head of the third course of temple musicians, sons of Asaph, serving under King David. As a musician, his role would have involved "remembering" and performing sacred melodies, connecting his name to the act of worshipful recollection.
4. **Nehemiah 3:2**: Zakkûwr, son of Imri, is noted as one of the individuals who helped rebuild the Wall of Jerusalem during Nehemiah's time. His participation in this vital reconstruction effort suggests a "mindful" and dedicated commitment to the restoration of Jerusalem.
5. **Nehemiah 10:12**: A Zakkûwr, one of the chiefs of the people, is among those who sealed the solemn covenant to walk in God's law. This act of covenant renewal required a profound "remembrance" of God's commands and past faithfulness. It is plausible this is the same Zakkûwr mentioned in [[Nehemiah 3:2]].
6. **Nehemiah 13:13**: Zakkûwr is identified as the father of Hanan, who was appointed by Nehemiah along with others to be in charge of the temple treasuries. This role demanded trustworthiness and careful "remembrance" of the sacred offerings and their proper distribution.
7. **Ezra 8:14**: Zakkûwr is mentioned as the father of Baruch, a leader of the sons of Bigvai who returned with Ezra from Babylonian exile. This individual's presence among those returning signifies a "remembering" of the ancestral land and a commitment to re-establishing the community of faith.
Across these various contexts, the name Zakkûwr consistently appears in association with individuals engaged in significant communal, religious, or administrative roles, implicitly linking their character or function to the concept of "mindfulness" or "remembrance."
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary and most direct related word to זַכּוּר (Zakkûwr) is its root verb, זָכַר (zāḵar, `{{H2142}}`), "to remember," "to mention," or "to call to mind." This verb is foundational to a wide array of biblical concepts, including:
* **Divine Remembrance**: God's "remembering" His covenant ([[Genesis 8:1]], [[Exodus 2:24]]), His promises, or His people ([[Psalm 105:8]]) is a powerful theological theme, indicating His active faithfulness and intervention.
* **Human Remembrance**: The imperative for humanity to "remember" God's works ([[Psalm 77:11]]), His law ([[Deuteronomy 5:15]]), and His covenant ([[Deuteronomy 4:9]]) is a recurring command, linking memory to obedience and faithfulness.
* **Memorials**: Related nouns like זִכָּרוֹן (zikkārôn, `{{H2146}}`), "memorial" or "remembrance," and זֶכֶר (zeḵer, `{{H2143}}`), "remembrance" or "memory," denote objects or actions designed to perpetuate memory. Examples include the Passover as a memorial ([[Exodus 12:14]]) or the stones set up after crossing the Jordan ([[Joshua 4:7]]).
* **Covenant (בְּרִית, bĕrît, `{{H1285}}`)**: The concept of covenant is deeply intertwined with remembrance, as both God and His people are called to remember the terms and obligations of their covenant relationship.
* **Faithfulness (אֱמוּנָה, ’ĕmûnāh, `{{H530}}`)**: True remembrance in the biblical sense often leads to faithfulness, as recalling God's past actions or commands inspires trust and obedience.
Thus, Zakkûwr is not an isolated term but part of a rich semantic field centered on memory, active recollection, and the implications of such remembrance for both divine action and human responsibility.
### Theological Significance
While זַכּוּר (Zakkûwr) is primarily a proper name, its etymological root in זָכַר (to remember) imbues it with significant theological resonance. The naming convention in ancient Israel often reflected hopes, circumstances, or characteristics, suggesting that parents desired their son to be "mindful" or that he would be "remembered" by God or his community.
The theological weight lies in the broader biblical concept of "remembrance." For God to "remember" is to act on behalf of His covenant and promises, demonstrating His unwavering faithfulness and justice. For humans to "remember" is to actively recall God's mighty acts of salvation, His holy law, and His covenant demands, leading to worship, obedience, and renewed commitment. The name Zakkûwr thus serves as an implicit reminder of this vital theological dynamic.
The individuals bearing this name, often found in roles requiring integrity, dedication, and attention to duty (e.g., spy, wall builder, temple musician, treasurer, covenant sealer), subtly reinforce the idea that such service requires a "mindful" and "remembering" heart. Their contributions to Israel's history, whether in exploration, worship, or rebuilding, underscore the importance of individuals who embody the quality of active remembrance in their service to God and community. The name, therefore, stands as a testament to the value placed on a life characterized by intentional recollection and responsive action in the divine-human relationship.
### Summary
זַכּוּר (Zakkûwr, `{{H2139}}`) is a Hebrew proper name meaning "mindful" or "one who remembers," derived from the verb זָכַר (zāḵar, `{{H2142}}`), "to remember." It appears as the name of seven distinct Israelites across various historical periods and contexts, including a spy, a Simeonite, a Levite musician, a wall builder, a chief who sealed a covenant, a father of a temple treasurer, and a father of a leader returning from exile. The consistent appearance of individuals named Zakkûwr in roles of significance suggests an underlying connection to the quality of active remembrance and diligent service. Theologically, the name points to the profound biblical concept of "remembrance," which encompasses both God's active faithfulness to His covenant and humanity's imperative to recall and respond to God's commands and mighty acts. Thus, Zakkûwr encapsulates a call to a life of mindful devotion and faithful obedience.
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