probably for עַכְבָּר; Akbor, the name of an Idumaean and of two Israelites; Achbor.
Transliteration:ʻAkbôwr
Pronunciation:ak-bore'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H5907}}` (ʻAkbôwr), transliterated as Akbor or Achbor, functions exclusively as a proper noun in the biblical text. Its base definition indicates that it is "probably for `{{H5909}}` (ʻakbār)", which means "mouse" or "rat". This suggests an etymological connection to the animal, a common practice in ancient naming conventions where individuals might be named after creatures. However, as a proper name, ʻAkbôwr's semantic range is restricted to identifying specific individuals within the biblical narrative, rather than conveying a descriptive meaning itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
ʻAkbôwr (`{{H5907}}`) appears in the Old Testament in reference to three distinct individuals:
1. **An Edomite King:** ʻAkbôwr is identified as the father of Baal-hanan, one of the kings who reigned in Edom before any king reigned over the Israelites. This genealogical reference is found in [[Genesis 36:38]] and [[1 Chronicles 1:49]]. In this context, ʻAkbôwr serves to establish a lineage within the Edomite monarchy, highlighting the historical continuity of nations surrounding Israel.
2. **A Judahite Official during Josiah's Reign:** This ʻAkbôwr is a more prominent figure, mentioned as one of the five trusted officials sent by King Josiah to consult the prophetess Huldah after the discovery of the Book of the Law in the Temple. He is identified as the son of Micaiah (or Michaiah) in [[2 Kings 22:12]] and [[2 Kings 22:14]], and also referenced in [[2 Chronicles 34:20]]. His inclusion in this critical delegation underscores his position of trust and importance within Josiah's court. The delegation's purpose was to inquire of the Lord concerning the words of the newly found book, indicating the king's earnest desire to understand and respond to God's revealed will.
3. **A Benjamite, Father of Elhanan:** In [[1 Chronicles 8:38]] and [[1 Chronicles 9:44]], ʻAkbôwr is listed as the father of Elhanan, a descendant within the tribe of Benjamin. This is another genealogical entry, contributing to the detailed tribal records that were significant for establishing identity, inheritance, and priestly/levitical roles in ancient Israel.
Across these occurrences, the name ʻAkbôwr functions as a marker of identity within specific historical and genealogical frameworks.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to `{{H5907}}` is `{{H5909}}` (ʻakbār), meaning "mouse" or "rat." While this connection exists at an etymological level, it does not imply that the individuals named ʻAkbôwr possessed mouse-like qualities. It simply reflects a naming convention.
Conceptually, the appearances of ʻAkbôwr relate to several key biblical themes:
* **Genealogy and Lineage:** The repeated mention of ʻAkbôwr in genealogical lists (Edomite kings, Benjamite family) highlights the biblical emphasis on ancestry, tribal identity, and the historical recording of peoples, both within and outside of Israel.
* **Royal Administration and Counsel:** The ʻAkbôwr of Josiah's court exemplifies the role of trusted advisors in the ancient Near Eastern monarchy. His involvement in seeking divine counsel underscores the interface between political leadership and prophetic guidance.
* **Divine Revelation and Human Response:** The most significant context for ʻAkbôwr is his participation in the delegation to Huldah. This event speaks to the profound impact of God's revealed word, the king's humble and urgent response, and the role of officials in facilitating that response.
### Theological Significance
As a proper name, ʻAkbôwr (`{{H5907}}`) does not carry inherent theological meaning in the way a divine attribute or a covenant term might. Its theological significance is derived from the actions and contexts of the individuals who bore the name, particularly the ʻAkbôwr associated with King Josiah.
The ʻAkbôwr in Josiah's delegation embodies several important theological principles:
* **Response to God's Word:** His presence signifies the immediate and earnest response of the king and his court to the rediscovered Book of the Law. This act of seeking divine counsel demonstrates humility and a desire for righteousness in the face of impending judgment.
* **Intermediation of Truth:** ʻAkbôwr is part of the group sent to receive God's word from the prophetess Huldah. This highlights the role of intermediaries—prophets and those who seek their counsel—in the communication of divine truth to humanity.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility:** The message delivered through Huldah, which ʻAkbôwr heard, confirmed God's judgment on Judah but also offered grace to Josiah for his contrite heart. ʻAkbôwr was a witness to this pivotal moment, underscoring both God's sovereign justice and the human responsibility to respond in repentance.
The other occurrences of ʻAkbôwr, while less dramatic, contribute to the broader theological theme of God's meticulous attention to history and lineage, demonstrating His sovereign oversight of both Israel and the nations.
### Summary
`{{H5907}}` (ʻAkbôwr) is a Hebrew proper noun, likely derived from the word for "mouse," used to identify three distinct individuals in the Old Testament. These include an Edomite king, a Benjamite ancestor, and most notably, a trusted official in King Josiah's court. The ʻAkbôwr of Josiah's time played a significant role in the delegation sent to the prophetess Huldah after the discovery of the Book of the Law. His participation underscores the immediate and humble response of the king and his court to God's revealed word, highlighting the importance of seeking divine counsel and acting in obedience. While the name itself holds no intrinsic theological meaning, the contexts in which it appears, particularly the events surrounding Josiah's reforms, powerfully illustrate themes of divine revelation, human responsibility, and the unfolding of God's purposes in history.
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