### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H5987 (עָמוֹק, ʻÂmôwq) functions exclusively as a proper noun in the biblical text, identifying an individual. Its core meaning is derived from the root H6011 (עָמַק, ʻâmaq), which signifies "to be deep," "to make deep," or "to be profound." This root is used to describe physical depth (e.g., deep water, a deep pit) as well as metaphorical depth (e.g., deep counsel, profound wisdom, the deep things of God). Thus, the name ʻÂmôwq inherently carries the semantic resonance of "deep" or "profound," suggesting a characteristic or origin related to depth, though applied to a person. It is not an adjective describing a quality of something, but a personal name whose etymology points to this concept.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The proper noun H5987 occurs twice in the Hebrew Bible, both instances referring to the same individual, Amok.
* [[Nehemiah 12:7]]: Amok is listed among the priests who returned from Babylonian exile with Zerubbabel and Jeshua. He is named as one of the heads of the priestly houses "in the days of Jeshua." This verse is part of a genealogical record detailing the Levitical and priestly lineages that were instrumental in re-establishing worship in Jerusalem after the return.
* [[Nehemiah 12:20]]: Amok is again mentioned in a list of priestly families, specifically within the context of the days of Joiakim, Jeshua's successor. Here, he is identified as the head of the priestly house of Amok, with the note that the head of the house of Amok was "Eber." This indicates that Amok was the progenitor or founder of a particular priestly line that continued through his descendants, such as Eber.
The context of these occurrences is crucial. They appear within the detailed records of the post-exilic community, emphasizing the restoration of the temple service and the orderly re-establishment of the priesthood. The meticulous recording of names underscores the importance of lineage, identity, and the continuity of God's covenant people in the rebuilding efforts. Amok's inclusion signifies his role as a foundational figure in the restored priestly order.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to H5987 is its root verb H6011 (עָמַק, ʻâmaq), "to be deep." This root appears frequently in various contexts:
* Physical depth: [[Psalm 69:2]] speaks of "deep waters," and [[Proverbs 20:5]] refers to "deep water" in the heart of a man.
* Intellectual or spiritual depth: [[Psalm 92:5]] describes God's thoughts as "very deep," and [[Isaiah 29:15]] condemns those who "hide their counsel deep from the LORD."
* The noun form derived from this root, H6009 (עֹמֶק, ʻōmeq), means "depth" or "profundity," as seen in [[Job 12:22]] concerning "deep things" or [[Romans 11:33]] (via Greek `{{G901}}`) regarding the "depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God."
While H5987 itself is a proper noun, its etymological link to H6011 connects it to the broader biblical concept of "depth"—whether physical, intellectual, or divine. This connection suggests that Hebrew names often carried significant meaning, sometimes alluding to a person's character, destiny, or even a subtle theological truth.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, the theological significance of H5987 (Amok) is primarily indirect, yet profound.
1. **God's Remembrance and Covenant Faithfulness:** The meticulous recording of names like Amok in the books of Nehemiah and Ezra highlights God's sovereign hand in history and His faithfulness to His covenant people. These lists are not mere genealogies but a testament to God's preservation of His remnant and the orderly re-establishment of His worship. God remembers those who serve Him, especially those foundational in the restoration of His kingdom.
2. **Continuity of Priesthood:** Amok's inclusion in the priestly lineage underscores the unbroken line of the Aaronic priesthood, vital for the continuation of sacrifices and intercession in post-exilic Israel. This continuity points to God's enduring plan for atonement and communion with His people, ultimately fulfilled in the high priesthood of Christ [[Hebrews 7:24]].
3. **Meaning in Names:** While speculative for Amok specifically, the etymological connection to "deep" may subtly hint at a profound character, a person of deep faith, or one whose life was deeply rooted in God's covenant. In biblical thought, names often conveyed identity, destiny, or a divine message. The very act of naming reflects God's personal knowledge and care for individuals within His grand redemptive narrative.
### Summary
H5987 (עָמוֹק, ʻÂmôwq) is a proper Hebrew noun, Amok, exclusively identifying a priest in the post-exilic community. Its root, H6011 (עָמַק), means "to be deep" or "profound," lending the name an etymological sense of "deepness." Amok is recorded twice in Nehemiah [[Nehemiah 12:7]], [[Nehemiah 12:20]] as a head of a priestly house, emphasizing his role in the re-establishment of temple worship after the return from exile. The theological significance lies in God's meticulous recording of His servants, affirming His covenant faithfulness and the importance of the priestly lineage. While a proper name, its root meaning subtly connects Amok to the broader biblical concept of depth, whether physical, intellectual, or spiritual, reflecting the richness often embedded in Hebrew nomenclature.
TRV