or קֹרֵא; (1 Chronicles 26:1), active participle of קָרָא; crier; Kore, the name of two Israelites; Kore.
Transliteration:Qôwrêʼ
Pronunciation:ko-ray'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H6981, קוֹרֵא (Qôwrêʼ), is an active participle derived from the verb קָרָא (qārāʼ, `{{H7121}}`). The root verb `{{H7121}}` carries a rich semantic range, encompassing meanings such as "to call," "to cry out," "to summon," "to proclaim," "to read," and "to name." As an active participle, קוֹרֵא (Qôwrêʼ) literally means "one who calls," "a crier," or "one who proclaims." However, in its biblical occurrences, H6981 functions exclusively as a proper noun, "Kore," referring to specific individuals. This transformation from a descriptive participle to a personal name suggests that the individuals may have been named for this characteristic or function, or simply that the name was derived from this common verbal root. The base definition provided, "crier," reflects the direct participial meaning, while its primary usage as a proper noun "Kore" indicates its specific application in the biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H6981, "Kore," appears in the Old Testament primarily in the books of Chronicles, identifying Levites associated with temple service.
1. **[[1 Chronicles 9:19]]**: Here, Kore, son of Imnah, is identified as one of the doorkeepers (שֹׁעֲרִים, sho'arim) of the tabernacle, specifically overseeing the entrance to the camp of the Lord. Their role involved guarding the thresholds and distributing the offerings of the Lord. This highlights a crucial administrative and security function within the sacred space.
2. **[[1 Chronicles 26:1]]**: This verse mentions Kore, son of Ebiasaph, son of Korah, as a doorkeeper among the divisions of the doorkeepers. This entry, alongside [[1 Chronicles 9:19]], solidifies Kore's association with the doorkeeping lineage of the Levites, particularly those descended from Korah. The repetition of this name within the same functional context suggests either a recurring name in a specific lineage or possibly the same individual fulfilling a long-term role.
3. **[[2 Chronicles 31:14]]**: This passage presents Kore, son of Imnah the Levite, the doorkeeper at the East Gate, in a significant administrative role during the reforms of King Hezekiah. He was in charge of the freewill offerings for God, responsible for distributing the contributions of the Lord and the most holy things to the priests and Levites in their cities. This role required immense trust, integrity, and organizational skill, underscoring the vital nature of his service.
In all instances, Kore is a Levite serving in a capacity that involves access control, administration of sacred offerings, and general oversight within the temple or tabernacle complex. The name "Kore" ("crier" or "proclaimer") might subtly hint at the Levites' broader function of announcing sacred times, calling people to worship, or maintaining order through vocal commands, even in the specific role of a doorkeeper.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word to H6981 is its root verb, קָרָא (qārāʼ, `{{H7121}}`), "to call," "to cry out," "to proclaim." This root is foundational to understanding the potential implications of the name "Kore." Other derivatives of `{{H7121}}` include:
* מִקְרָא (miqrāʼ, `{{H4744}}`): "convocation," "assembly," "reading." This term is used for holy convocations or assemblies, emphasizing the act of "calling together" the people for sacred purposes.
* קָרִיא (qārîʼ, `{{H7123}}`): "called," "appointed," referring to those who are summoned or designated for a task.
The concept of "calling" is central to biblical theology, encompassing God's call to individuals (e.g., Abraham, Moses), the call to worship, the prophetic call to repentance, and the general summons to covenant faithfulness. The specific roles of Kore—doorkeeper, administrator of offerings—connect to broader concepts of temple service, priestly duties, and the meticulous care required for sacred things. The Levites, as a tribe, were "called" to specific service in the tabernacle and temple, distinct from the general populace.
### Theological Significance
While H6981 primarily identifies a person, the underlying meaning of the name "Kore" (crier, proclaimer) and the specific roles of the individuals bearing this name carry theological resonance. Kore's service as a faithful Levite, a doorkeeper, and an administrator of sacred offerings exemplifies the importance of diligent, trustworthy, and consecrated service within God's house.
The Levites were divinely appointed for their tasks, "called" to minister before the Lord. Kore's name subtly reinforces this divine calling. As a "crier," he might symbolize the Levites' broader function of proclaiming God's law, announcing the divine will, or calling the people to worship and obedience. Even in the seemingly mundane role of a doorkeeper, there is a sacred trust: guarding the sanctity of God's dwelling and ensuring proper access.
Furthermore, Kore's responsibility for distributing the freewill offerings (2 Chronicles 31:14) speaks to the integrity and faithfulness required of those entrusted with God's provisions and the well-being of His ministers. This highlights the theological principle that those who serve God, particularly in roles of stewardship, must be above reproach. The name "Kore" thus becomes a quiet testament to a life of dedicated service, fulfilling a divine call within the sacred economy of Israel.
### Summary
H6981, קוֹרֵא (Qôwrêʼ), derived from the verb "to call" or "to cry out," serves in the biblical text as the proper name "Kore." This name is consistently attributed to Levites who fulfilled vital roles within the tabernacle and temple administration. Specifically, Kore is identified as a doorkeeper and, significantly, as an administrator responsible for the distribution of sacred offerings. While a proper noun, the underlying meaning of "crier" or "proclaimer" subtly connects to the broader Levitical function of proclaiming God's will and calling the people to worship. The biblical portrayal of Kore underscores the theological importance of faithful, diligent, and trustworthy service in God's house, embodying the sacred calling to minister before the Lord.
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