the same as עִקֵּשׁ; perverse; Ikkesh, an Israelite; Ikkesh.
Transliteration:ʻIqqêsh
Pronunciation:ik-kashe'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6142}}` (עִקֵּשׁ, ʻIqqêsh) functions primarily as a proper noun in the biblical text, referring to a specific individual. Its etymological root, however, is deeply significant. It derives from the verb `{{H6140}}` (עָקַשׁ, aqash), meaning "to twist," "to distort," or "to make crooked." From this root also comes the adjective `{{H6141}}` (עִקֵּשׁ, ʻiqqêsh), which carries the meaning of "perverse," "crooked," or "twisted" in a moral or ethical sense. Thus, while `{{H6142}}` designates a person, the name itself signifies "perverse" or "crooked." This illustrates a common ancient Near Eastern practice where names often reflected characteristics, circumstances, or hopes, though not necessarily the individual's personal moral standing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The proper noun `{{H6142}}` (ʻIqqêsh) appears in three distinct passages within the Old Testament, always in reference to the same individual:
* In [[2 Samuel 23:26]], Ikkesh is identified as the father of Ira the Ithrite, who is listed among David's thirty mighty men. The verse states, "Ira the Ithrite, son of Ikkesh."
* Similarly, in [[1 Chronicles 11:28]], the parallel account of David's mighty men, we read, "Ira the son of Ikkesh the Tekoite." This passage adds the geographical identifier "the Tekoite," indicating Ikkesh (or his family) hailed from Tekoa, a town in Judah.
* Finally, in [[1 Chronicles 27:9]], Ikkesh is again mentioned in the context of the monthly divisions of the army officers. "The sixth captain for the sixth month was Ira the son of Ikkesh the Tekoite..." Here, Ira, Ikkesh's son, is noted as a commander of 24,000 men.
In all occurrences, Ikkesh himself is not an active participant in the narrative. He is solely identified as the father of Ira, a prominent and loyal warrior in King David's elite forces. His significance is therefore primarily genealogical, serving to identify his son. The texts provide no further details about Ikkesh's life, character, or deeds beyond his name and his familial connection to Ira.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of `{{H6142}}` is most directly connected to the Hebrew roots for "perversity" or "crookedness."
* **`{{H6140}}` (עָקַשׁ, aqash):** The verbal root, meaning "to twist," "to make crooked," or "to pervert." It often describes actions that deviate from what is straight, right, or just.
* **`{{H6141}}` (עִקֵּשׁ, ʻiqqêsh):** The adjectival form, directly meaning "perverse," "crooked," or "twisted." This word is frequently used in wisdom literature, particularly Proverbs, to describe a person's character or actions that are morally corrupt, obstinate, or devious. For example, [[Proverbs 2:15]] speaks of those "whose paths are crooked, and who are devious in their ways." [[Proverbs 11:20]] states, "Those of crooked heart are an abomination to the Lord."
While the name Ikkesh shares this etymological root, it is crucial to differentiate the proper noun from the abstract concept. The name does not inherently imply that Ikkesh himself was a "perverse" individual in the biblical narrative. Many biblical names carried meanings that were not direct descriptors of the person's character (e.g., Jacob, "supplanter"). The concept of perversity, however, is a significant theological theme, often contrasting with the straight path of righteousness and obedience to God's law.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6142}}` (ʻIqqêsh) is primarily indirect, stemming more from the etymology of the name than from the individual himself. As Ikkesh is only ever mentioned as a father, his personal theological contribution to the biblical narrative is minimal. However, several insights can be gleaned:
1. **The Nature of Names:** The name "Ikkesh" ("perverse") serves as a reminder that biblical names, while often meaningful, do not always predetermine or perfectly describe the character of the bearer. God often uses individuals regardless of their lineage or the literal meaning of their names.
2. **Divine Providence and Human Lineage:** Ira, the son of Ikkesh, was a loyal and esteemed warrior in David's army, holding a position of significant trust and responsibility. That a man named "Perverse" could father such a devoted servant of the king (and by extension, of God's anointed) highlights the complexities of human lineage and God's sovereign choice. It suggests that one's background or the implications of one's name do not limit God's ability to raise up faithful individuals.
3. **Contrast with the Root Meaning:** The stark contrast between the name's meaning ("perverse") and the righteous service of his son, Ira, can subtly underscore the biblical emphasis on individual responsibility and the transformative power of faith and obedience. While the world may be characterized by perversity (as described by the root `{{H6141}}`), God's grace can still work through and within human families.
### Summary
`{{H6142}}` (עִקֵּשׁ, ʻIqqêsh) is a Hebrew proper noun designating an individual, Ikkesh, who is identified in the Old Testament solely as the father of Ira the Tekoite, one of King David's mighty men. Etymologically, the name "Ikkesh" derives from the root meaning "to twist" or "to make crooked," and its adjectival form `{{H6141}}` means "perverse." Despite the potentially negative connotation of his name, Ikkesh is presented without any personal character description, serving purely as a genealogical identifier for his son, Ira, a loyal and distinguished figure in David's court. The study of `{{H6142}}` therefore highlights the nuanced relationship between biblical names and personal character, and subtly points to the broader theological theme of God's ability to use individuals from all backgrounds in His divine plan.
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