### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʻIqqêsh**, represented by `{{H6142}}`, is defined as **perverse; Ikkesh, an Israelite; Ikkesh**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The name serves to identify a specific individual within the genealogical and administrative records of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6142}}` is used exclusively to identify the father of a man named Ira. All three occurrences frame him in this paternal role, as in the phrase "Ira the son of **Ikkesh** the Tekoite" ([[2 Samuel 23:26]], [[1 Chronicles 11:28]]). His name appears within lists of notable Israelite men. One passage further specifies that his son, Ira, was a military commander, serving as "the sixth captain for the sixth month," with a division of "twenty and four thousand" men under his command [[1 Chronicles 27:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding Ikkesh and his family:
* `{{H5896}}` **ʻÎyrâʼ** (wakefulness; Ira, the name of three Israelites; Ira): This is the name of Ikkesh's son, a prominent individual identified as a military captain from Tekoah [[1 Chronicles 27:9]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This essential term establishes Ikkesh's role as a father, as he is only mentioned in relation to "Ira the **son** of Ikkesh" [[1 Chronicles 11:28]].
* `{{H8621}}` **Tᵉqôwʻîy** (a Tekoite or inhabitant of Tekoah): This identifier specifies the family's geographical origin from the town of Tekoah, providing important context for their lineage [[2 Samuel 23:26]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H6142}}` is centered on lineage and social structure.
* **Paternal Lineage:** The name **ʻIqqêsh** exists in scripture solely to identify his son, Ira. His mention emphasizes the patrilineal system of identification in ancient Israel, where a man's identity was often tied to his father [[2 Samuel 23:26]].
* **Connection to Military Command:** Though Ikkesh's own deeds are not recorded, his family is linked to significant national service. His son, Ira, was a captain over a **course** `{{H4256}}` of twenty-four **thousand** `{{H505}}` men, positioning the family within the kingdom's military organization [[1 Chronicles 27:9]].
* **Tekoite Heritage:** The consistent designation of his family as **Tekoite** `{{H8621}}` grounds them in the history and geography of Judah. This connects them to the town of Tekoah and its people [[1 Chronicles 11:28]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʻIqqêsh** `{{H6142}}` is a biblical figure whose identity is preserved through his son, Ira. While the meaning of his name is **perverse**, his narrative function is purely genealogical, identifying him as a **Tekoite** and the father of a captain. The three occurrences of his name underscore the importance of paternal lineage and service within the historical records of ancient Israel.