### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nekeç**, represented by `{{H5233}}`, refers to accumulated **treasure, riches, and wealth**. Based on an unused root meaning to accumulate, this term appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, denoting significant material possessions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5233}}` consistently describes substantial material assets, often in the context of divine provision or reward. In the account of Solomon, God offers him **wealth** and honor after he chooses wisdom [[2 Chronicles 1:11-12]]. The term is used in Joshua to describe the "much **riches**" that the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh were to take back to their tents after their military campaign, which included cattle, silver, gold, brass, and iron [[Joshua 22:8]]. The book of Ecclesiastes presents it as a gift from God, but also cautions that having **wealth** without the power to enjoy it is "vanity, and it is an evil disease" [[Ecclesiastes 6:2]], while the ability to enjoy it is also a "gift of God" [[Ecclesiastes 5:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope of material prosperity associated with `{{H5233}}`:
* `{{H6239}}` **ʻôsher** (riches): This word for wealth is frequently paired directly with `{{H5233}}`, as seen in the promises to Solomon and the reflections in Ecclesiastes, suggesting a comprehensive or abundant prosperity ([[2 Chronicles 1:11]], [[Ecclesiastes 5:19]]).
* `{{H3519}}` **kâbôwd** (honour): Often appearing in a trio with `ʻôsher` and `nekeç`, this term adds the dimension of splendor and glory to material wealth, indicating that true prosperity includes respect and high standing ([[2 Chronicles 1:12]], [[Ecclesiastes 6:2]]).
* `{{H3701}}` **keçeph** (silver): Listed as a specific component of the riches in [[Joshua 22:8]], `keçeph` functions as a tangible example of the wealth that `{{H5233}}` represents. It also carries the implication of money or currency.
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold): Like silver, gold is mentioned in [[Joshua 22:8]] as a specific form of the "much **riches**" (`nekeç`) the tribes possessed. It represents a valuable and desirable asset.
### Theological Significance
The theological concept of `{{H5233}}` centers on the nature and source of material wealth.
* **Wealth as a Divine Gift:** In every one of its uses in 2 Chronicles and Ecclesiastes, `nekeç` is explicitly described as something "God hath given" [[Ecclesiastes 5:19]]. It is presented as a potential blessing from God, given as a reward or gift.
* **The Conditional Value of Riches:** Ecclesiastes powerfully illustrates that the accumulation of `nekeç` is not an absolute good. The possession of wealth is separated from the "power to eat thereof," showing that true enjoyment is a separate gift from God [[Ecclesiastes 6:2]].
* **Prosperity and Honor:** The linkage of `{{H5233}}` with `{{H3519}}` `kâbôwd` (honour) suggests a biblical understanding where divinely granted prosperity includes not just assets but also the glory and honorable standing that accompanies them [[2 Chronicles 1:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5233}}` `nekeç` is a specific term for accumulated treasure and wealth. While it is one of the tangible ways God can bless individuals like Solomon, its appearances, particularly in Ecclesiastes, serve as a profound reminder that material riches are distinct from the ability to enjoy them. Wealth is a divine gift, but its value is ultimately realized only when accompanied by the corresponding gift of contentment and enjoyment from God.
TRV