or קֵרֹס; from the same as קַרְסֹל; ankled; Keros, one of the Nethinim; Keros.
Transliteration:Qêyrôç
Pronunciation:kay-roce'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H7026}}` (Qêyrôç) is a proper noun, identifying an individual who served as the progenitor of a family unit among the Nethinim. The base definition provided indicates a derivation from the same root as `{{H7025}}` (qarsol), meaning "ankle." While the etymological connection to "ankle" might suggest a physical characteristic or a descriptive origin for the name, for a proper noun, this etymology primarily serves to identify the individual rather than to convey a direct semantic meaning in its usage. Thus, the core meaning of `{{H7026}}` is simply "Keros," referring to the specific family head. Its semantic range is therefore extremely narrow, confined solely to this personal and familial identification within the biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Keros (`{{H7026}}`) appears exclusively in two post-exilic lists detailing those who returned from the Babylonian captivity to Judah. Both occurrences place Keros among the Nethinim, a group of temple servants.
1. **[[Ezra 2:44]]**: "the children of Keros, the children of Siaha, the children of Padon,"
2. **[[Nehemiah 7:47]]**: "The children of Keros, the children of Sia, the children of Padon,"
In both instances, Keros is listed as the head of a family whose descendants were part of the Nethinim. The Nethinim (from the Hebrew root *nathan*, "to give") were individuals "given" or dedicated to the service of the temple, performing various menial tasks such as cutting wood and drawing water. Their role was crucial for the practical functioning of the sanctuary. The context of these verses is a census or genealogical record, meticulously documenting the returnees and their ancestral lines, particularly those involved in the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple. The inclusion of Keros's family in these vital lists underscores their participation in the post-exilic community and their essential role in the re-establishment of temple worship. There is no narrative account or further information provided about Keros himself, only the mention of his family line.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to `{{H7026}}` is its suggested etymological root:
* **`{{H7025}}` (qarsol)**: This Hebrew noun means "ankle." While the precise connection between "ankle" and the name "Keros" is not explicitly stated in the biblical text, the Strong's definition points to this linguistic link. It might have referred to a physical characteristic of the progenitor or perhaps a place associated with him.
* **Nethinim (נְתִינִים)**: This is the broader category to which the family of Keros belonged. The Nethinim were temple servants, often considered distinct from the Levites, and possibly of non-Israelite origin (e.g., descendants of the Gibeonites or other conquered peoples who were assigned to temple service). Their dedication to the temple highlights the diverse composition of the post-exilic community and the varied roles necessary for the functioning of sacred space. The concept of "being given" (from *nathan*, the root of Nethinim) to God's service is central to understanding their identity.
### Theological Significance
While Keros himself is not a figure of narrative prominence, his inclusion in the biblical record carries significant theological weight.
1. **Divine Meticulousness**: The precise listing of families like Keros's, even those in seemingly humble service, demonstrates God's meticulous attention to detail and His remembrance of all who contribute to His redemptive plan. Every individual and family, regardless of their societal standing or role, is known and valued by God.
2. **Breadth of Participation in Restoration**: The return from exile and the rebuilding of the temple and city were not solely the work of priests and Levites. The Nethinim, including the family of Keros, played an indispensable role. This underscores the theological principle that the work of God's kingdom requires the diverse contributions of all its members, even those performing what might be considered menial tasks. Every service offered in devotion to God is significant.
3. **Inclusion and Grace**: The Nethinim, potentially of foreign descent, were integrated into the sacred service of Israel. This prefigures the broader inclusion of Gentiles into God's covenant people, illustrating God's gracious invitation to all who would serve Him, transcending ethnic or social boundaries. The family of Keros, by their presence, testifies to this expansive grace.
### Summary
`{{H7026}}` (Qêyrôç) is a proper noun, "Keros," identifying the head of a family among the Nethinim who returned from Babylonian exile. Etymologically linked to the Hebrew term for "ankle" (`{{H7025}}`), the name itself holds no direct theological meaning beyond identifying this specific individual and his lineage. Keros's family is mentioned in the lists of returnees in [[Ezra 2:44]] and [[Nehemiah 7:47]], signifying their vital role as temple servants in the post-exilic community. The theological significance of Keros's inclusion lies not in any personal actions, but in what his family's presence reveals about God's meticulous care for all His people, the necessity of diverse contributions to His work, and the breadth of His gracious inclusion in the restoration of His people and worship.
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