### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼikkâr**, represented by `{{H406}}`, is derived from a root meaning to dig and serves as a term for a **farmer**, **husbandman**, or **ploughman**. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently referring to one who cultivates the earth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the status of the `{{H406}}` often functions as an indicator of the nation's condition. During times of judgment, the **husbandman** is called to mourning [[Amos 5:16]], and **plowmen** are ashamed because of drought and failed harvests ([[Jeremiah 14:4]], [[Joel 1:11]]). In a prophecy of Babylon's fall, the destruction of the **husbandman** and his equipment is a sign of total societal collapse [[Jeremiah 51:23]]. Conversely, during periods of blessing and restoration, **husbandmen** are found dwelling in the land [[Jeremiah 31:24]], and strangers are foretold to serve Israel as their **plowmen** [[Isaiah 61:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for the agricultural life associated with `{{H406}}`:
* `{{H127}}` **ʼădâmâh**: This word for **soil** or **ground** is the direct object of the farmer's labor. The connection is explicit in the account of King Uzziah, who employed **husbandmen** `{{H406}}` because he "loved husbandry" `{{H127}}` [[2 Chronicles 26:10]].
* `{{H3755}}` **kôrêm**: As a **vinedresser**, this term often appears with **husbandman** to detail the full scope of agricultural work, separating the plowing of fields from the care of vineyards ([[Isaiah 61:5]], [[Joel 1:11]]).
* `{{H6776}}` **tsemed**: This word for a **yoke or team** of oxen is an essential tool for the ploughman. The link is made clear in prophecy, where judgment falls upon both the **husbandman** and his **yoke of oxen** [[Jeremiah 51:23]].
* `{{H7462}}` **râʻâh**: This word, meaning to **tend a flock** or act as a **shepherd**, is often used in parallel with `{{H406}}` to describe the two primary branches of Israel's agrarian economy: cultivating the land and raising livestock [[Jeremiah 51:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H406}}` is tied to its role as a barometer for divine favor or judgment.
* **National Judgment:** The suffering of the **ploughman** is a tangible sign of God's displeasure. Their shame and the perishing of their harvest serve as a physical manifestation of a spiritual crisis ([[Jeremiah 14:4]], [[Joel 1:11]]).
* **Covenant Blessing:** A thriving agricultural community with active **husbandmen** signifies national prosperity and God's blessing. This is seen in the peaceful state of Judah during restoration [[Jeremiah 31:24]] and the wealth of a king who loved the soil [[2 Chronicles 26:10]].
* **Societal Cornerstone:** The **husbandman** is listed among other foundational roles like shepherds and rulers, demonstrating that agriculture is a pillar of the nation whose removal signifies complete ruin [[Jeremiah 51:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H406}}` is more than just a job title; it is a vital concept in the Old Testament. As a **farmer** or **ploughman**, the figure of the **ʼikkâr** is intrinsically linked to the health of the land and, by extension, the spiritual state of the nation. Whether in contexts of judgment or restoration, this term reflects the deep connection between the soil, the people, and their God.
TRV