probably for נְכֹאת; spicery, i.e. (generally) valuables; precious things.
Transliteration:nᵉkôth
Pronunciation:nek-oth'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term נְכֹת (nᵉkôth, `{{H5238}}`) is understood primarily as "spicery," but its semantic range extends to encompass "valuables" or "precious things" more generally. The base definition suggests a probable etymological connection to נְכֹאת (nᵉkôth, `{{H5219}}`), which also refers to an aromatic gum or storax. This connection implies that the original meaning likely pertained to a specific, highly valued aromatic substance. However, the broader usage indicates that such "spicery" was considered a valuable commodity, leading to its application as a general term for precious goods. This transition from a specific high-value item to a broader category of "precious things" reflects the economic realities of the ancient Near East, where exotic spices and aromatics were significant items of trade and symbols of wealth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word נְכֹת (nᵉkôth, `{{H5238}}`) appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, both times within the book of Genesis, providing clear and consistent contextual usage:
1. **[[Genesis 37:25]]**: "Then they sat down to eat bread. And they lifted their eyes and looked, and there was a caravan of Ishmaelites, coming from Gilead, with their camels bearing gum, balm, and myrrh, on their way to carry them down to Egypt." Here, נְכֹת is translated as "spicery" or "storax," appearing alongside other valuable aromatic substances like gum (צֹרִי, `{{H6875}}`) and myrrh (לֹט, `{{H3910}}`). This verse depicts נְכֹת as a specific, tradable commodity, part of a merchant caravan's valuable cargo. The context is commercial, highlighting its role in inter-regional trade.
2. **[[Genesis 43:11]]**: "And their father Israel said to them, 'If it must be so, then do this: Take some of the best fruits of the land in your vessels and carry down a present for the man—a little balm and a little honey, spices and myrrh, pistachio nuts and almonds.'" In this instance, נְכֹת again appears as "spices," listed among other choice items from the land of Canaan, intended as a valuable gift for the Egyptian ruler (Joseph, though unknown to them). This context emphasizes its nature as a precious offering, suitable for appeasing a powerful figure or demonstrating respect and goodwill.
Both occurrences consistently present נְכֹת as a valuable, transportable commodity, either for trade or as a significant gift, often associated with other aromatic or highly prized natural products.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is נְכֹאת (nᵉkôth, `{{H5219}}`), which is often considered the root or a variant form, also meaning "storax" or "spicery." This reinforces the core meaning of an aromatic, valuable substance. More broadly, נְכֹת belongs to a semantic field of "precious goods" and "commodities" in the ancient world. Other related concepts and lexical items include:
* **Trade and Merchandise**: The context in [[Genesis 37:25]] links נְכֹת to the broader concept of commerce and the exchange of goods.
* **Gifts and Offerings**: In [[Genesis 43:11]], its inclusion in a "present" (מִנְחָה, minchah, `{{H4503}}`) connects it to the practice of diplomatic gift-giving and appeasement, a common social and political custom.
* **Aromatic Substances**: Words like בֹּשֶׂם (bosem, `{{H1314}}`, "spice, perfume"), לְבוֹנָה (levonah, `{{H3828}}`, "frankincense"), and מֹר (mor, `{{H4753}}`, "myrrh") are frequently found in biblical texts referring to valuable aromatics, often used in perfumes, anointing oils, or temple rituals, demonstrating the high value placed on such items.
* **Wealth and Prosperity**: The possession and exchange of such precious items were indicators of wealth and status in ancient societies.
### Theological Significance
While נְכֹת (nᵉkôth, `{{H5238}}`) itself does not carry explicit theological doctrine, its presence in the biblical narrative subtly contributes to the overarching themes of divine providence and human interaction.
Firstly, its appearance in the Joseph narrative highlights the intricate ways God orchestrates events through seemingly mundane human activities like trade. The Ishmaelite caravan carrying "spicery" and other goods to Egypt serves as the providential vehicle for Joseph's journey to Egypt, a crucial step in God's plan to preserve His chosen people during famine. Thus, even common commercial goods become instruments in the unfolding of salvation history.
Secondly, the use of נְכֹת as a valuable gift in [[Genesis 43:11]] underscores the cultural importance of reconciliation and seeking favor through tribute. This practice, though human in origin, can be seen as a reflection of the principle of bringing the best of one's possessions as an offering, a concept that finds its ultimate fulfillment in the sacrificial system and, ultimately, in Christ's perfect offering. The preciousness of the gift reflects the value placed on the relationship or the desired outcome.
Finally, the inclusion of such precious natural resources in the narrative subtly points to God's abundant provision. The land yields these valuable commodities, which are then used for trade, sustenance, and diplomacy, illustrating the created order's capacity to sustain and enrich human life under divine sovereignty.
### Summary
The Hebrew word נְכֹת (nᵉkôth, `{{H5238}}`) refers primarily to "spicery" or "aromatic gum," extending its meaning to "precious things" or "valuables" more broadly. Its two occurrences in Genesis consistently depict it as a highly valued commodity, used either as merchandise in trade ([[Genesis 37:25]]) or as a significant component of a diplomatic gift ([[Genesis 43:11]]). Contextual analysis reveals its association with other valuable aromatics and its role in ancient economic and social practices. Theologically, נְכֹת serves as a subtle reminder of God's sovereign hand in human affairs, utilizing even common trade goods to advance His redemptive purposes, and highlighting the cultural significance of valuable offerings in human relationships, all within the framework of God's abundant provision for His creation.
TRV