### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6134}}` (ʻÊqer) is a proper noun, functioning as a personal name. Its base definition indicates it is "the same as `{{H6133}}`," which provides crucial insight into its core meaning. `{{H6133}}` (ʻêqer) denotes "root," "stock," "shoot," or "stump." Therefore, the name Eker (`{{H6134}}`) carries the semantic weight of its etymological root, signifying "Root" or "Shoot." As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to identifying a specific individual within a genealogical record, yet the underlying meaning of its root word imbues it with symbolic depth, particularly in a biblical context where lineage and origin are highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Eker (`{{H6134}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 2:27]]: "The sons of Ram, his firstborn, were Maaz, Jamin, and Eker."
This solitary occurrence places Eker within the intricate genealogical records of the tribe of Judah. He is identified as one of the three sons of Ram, who was himself a son of Jerahmeel. Jerahmeel was a prominent descendant of Judah through Hezron. The context is purely genealogical, listing the lineage and family connections within the tribe. While no actions or narrative details are ascribed to Eker himself, his inclusion in this meticulous record underscores the biblical emphasis on lineage, especially for the tribe of Judah, from which the Davidic monarchy and ultimately the Messiah would emerge. His name, "Root" or "Shoot," subtly resonates within this context of ancestral lines and future growth.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is `{{H6133}}` (ʻêqer), from which the proper noun `{{H6134}}` is derived. `{{H6133}}` refers to the fundamental part of a plant, the "root" or "stump," signifying origin, foundation, or that which remains and can sprout anew. This concept is metaphorically rich throughout Scripture.
Related concepts include:
* **Genealogy and Lineage:** The meticulous recording of names like Eker highlights the biblical emphasis on family lines, particularly in tracing the promises of God through specific descendants (e.g., Abraham, Judah, David).
* **"Root" as Origin/Foundation:** The term "root" (`{{H6133}}`) is often used metaphorically for the source or origin of something, such as the "root of Jesse" referring to the lineage of David and the Messiah ([[Isaiah 11:10]]).
* **"Shoot" or "Branch" as New Growth/Offspring:** Similarly, "shoot" or "branch" (often derived from the concept of a root or stump) symbolizes new life, offspring, or a future leader, especially in messianic prophecies ([[Isaiah 11:1]], [[Jeremiah 23:5]], [[Zechariah 3:8]]).
* **Divine Preservation:** The inclusion of even seemingly minor names in genealogies speaks to God's careful preservation of the covenant line, ensuring the fulfillment of His promises.
### Theological Significance
While Eker himself is not a figure of narrative importance, the theological significance of his name and its single appearance lies in its contribution to the broader biblical narrative of God's faithfulness and the unfolding of His redemptive plan. The name "Root" or "Shoot," placed within the genealogy of Judah, subtly points to themes of continuity, divine preservation of lineage, and the anticipation of future offspring.
In a lineage that would eventually lead to King David and ultimately to the Messiah, the name "Root" or "Shoot" resonates with prophetic undertones. It serves as a quiet reminder of God's meticulous care for the ancestral lines, ensuring that the promised "Root of Jesse" ([[Isaiah 11:10]]) and "Branch" ([[Jeremiah 23:5]]) would indeed emerge from the designated lineage. Even seemingly obscure names in a genealogical list contribute to the overarching tapestry of God's sovereign plan, demonstrating His commitment to His covenant promises and the meticulous preparation for the advent of Christ.
### Summary
`{{H6134}}` (ʻÊqer) is a Hebrew proper noun, a personal name meaning "Root" or "Shoot," derived from `{{H6133}}`. It appears only once in the Bible, in [[1 Chronicles 2:27]], as a son of Ram within the intricate genealogy of the tribe of Judah. While Eker himself is not a figure of narrative prominence, his name carries symbolic weight, aligning with biblical themes of lineage, origin, and new growth. The presence of a name meaning "Root" or "Shoot" within the Messianic line of Judah subtly underscores God's meticulous preservation of the covenant people and the prophetic anticipation of the "Root of Jesse" or "Branch" (the Messiah). Thus, even a seemingly minor entry in a genealogical list contributes to the profound theological narrative of God's faithfulness and His sovereign plan for redemption.
TRV