from an unused root probably meaning to obey; obedient; Jakeh, a symbolical name (for Solomon); Jakeh.
Transliteration:Yâqeh
Pronunciation:yaw-keh'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H3348}}` (Yâqeh) is a proper noun, transliterated as "Jakeh." Its base definition indicates derivation from an unused root, which is inferred to mean "to obey." Thus, the name itself carries the semantic weight of "obedient." This singular meaning is directly tied to its function as a personal name. Intriguingly, the definition further clarifies that "Jakeh" is considered a "symbolical name (for Solomon)," suggesting a deeper, perhaps allegorical, layer to its meaning beyond a mere appellation. The semantic range is therefore quite narrow, focusing exclusively on the concept of obedience as embodied in a specific historical or symbolic figure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H3348}}` (Yâqeh) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[Proverbs 30:1]]. The verse reads: "The words of Agur son of Jakeh, the oracle." This occurrence is found in the superscription to a collection of wisdom sayings attributed to "Agur son of Jakeh." The context is therefore that of wisdom literature, introducing a sage or a body of wisdom. The critical interpretive note, as provided by the Strong's definition, identifies "Jakeh" as a symbolic name for King Solomon. If this identification holds, then Agur would be presented as a son or successor to Solomon's wisdom tradition, or perhaps "son of Jakeh" is a literary device indicating Agur's lineage within the "obedient" or "wise" royal line. This connection to Solomon is paramount, as it imbues the name "Jakeh" with the theological significance of the king renowned for his wisdom and, at least initially, his obedience to God.
### Related Words & Concepts
While `{{H3348}}` itself stems from an unused root, its core meaning of "obedience" connects it to several fundamental Hebrew concepts. The most prominent verb for "to obey" in Hebrew is `{{H8085}}` (šāmaʿ), which literally means "to hear" but frequently carries the nuance of "to hear and obey" or "to listen attentively and respond." Other related concepts include:
* `{{H6213}}` (ʿāśâ), "to do" or "to make," often implies obedience when referring to the performance of God's commands.
* `{{H6965}}` (qôl), "voice" or "sound," frequently paired with `{{H8085}}` to denote "obeying the voice of" God or His appointed leaders.
* The concept of "wisdom" itself, particularly as found in the book of Proverbs, is intrinsically linked to obedience. True wisdom begins with the "fear of the Lord" ([[Proverbs 9:10]]), which necessitates a life of submission and obedience to divine instruction.
* The name "Solomon" (`{{H8010}}`, Shlomo), meaning "peaceful" or "his peace," contrasts with the "obedient" meaning of Jakeh, yet peace is often a result of obedience to God's covenant.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3348}}` (Yâqeh) primarily rests on its proposed identification as a symbolic name for King Solomon. If "Jakeh" means "obedient," then linking it to Solomon highlights a crucial aspect of his character and reign. Solomon was initially blessed with unparalleled wisdom and prosperity precisely because he sought God's wisdom and, in that pursuit, demonstrated obedience to God's call (cf. [[1 Kings 3]]). The name "Jakeh" would thus serve as a poignant reminder of the ideal king: one who is "obedient" to the divine will. However, the tragic trajectory of Solomon's later life, marked by disobedience and idolatry ([[1 Kings 11]]), casts the name "Jakeh" into a sharper relief, underscoring the profound consequences of departing from the path of obedience. For the reader of Proverbs, the superscription "Agur son of Jakeh" would implicitly set the stage for a wisdom tradition rooted in, and perhaps lamenting the departure from, the ideal of an obedient monarch and a nation living in accordance with God's commands. It subtly reinforces the overarching biblical theme that true wisdom is not merely intellectual acumen but a life lived in humble submission and obedience to the Lord.
### Summary
`{{H3348}}` (Yâqeh), transliterated as Jakeh, is a unique Hebrew proper noun appearing only once in [[Proverbs 30:1]]. Its core meaning, derived from an unused root, signifies "obedient." Crucially, scholarly tradition widely interprets "Jakeh" as a symbolic name for King Solomon. This identification imbues the name with significant theological weight, emphasizing the foundational importance of obedience, particularly for leadership. It serves as a reminder of Solomon's initial devotion and wisdom, which were rooted in his obedience to God, and implicitly contrasts with his later failures. Within the context of wisdom literature, the name "Jakeh" underscores that genuine wisdom is inseparable from a life of humble submission and obedience to the divine will.
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