### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tᵉqôwʻîy**, represented by `{{H8621}}`, is a patronymic term meaning a **Tekoite**, or an inhabitant of the town of Tekoah. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. This identifier serves to connect specific individuals and groups to their place of origin, revealing their roles within the broader narrative of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, individuals identified as a Tekoite `{{H8621}}` play distinct roles. A wise **woman** `{{H802}}` of Tekoah approaches King David, falling on her **face** `{{H639}}` in obeisance `{{H7812}}` to plead a case designed to bring about reconciliation [[2 Samuel 14:4]]. She demonstrates her commitment by declaring that any **iniquity** `{{H5771}}` should fall upon her and her father's house, keeping the **king** `{{H4428}}` and his **throne** `{{H3678}}` **guiltless** `{{H5355}}` [[2 Samuel 14:9]]. In another context, Ira the **son** `{{H1121}}` of Ikkesh the Tekoite is listed as one of David's mighty men and a military captain in charge of a monthly **course** `{{H4256}}` of twenty-four **thousand** `{{H505}}` men ([[2 Samuel 23:26]]; [[1 Chronicles 27:9]]). Later, the Tekoites are recorded as those who **repaired** `{{H2388}}` sections of Jerusalem's **wall** `{{H2346}}` under Nehemiah, although their **nobles** `{{H117}}` refused to submit to the **work** `{{H5656}}` of their **Lord** `{{H113}}` ([[Nehemiah 3:5]], 27).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the contexts in which the Tekoites appear:
* `{{H5896}}` **ʻÎyrâʼ** (Ira): This is the name of the specific Tekoite warrior, meaning "wakefulness; Ira, the name of three Israelites; Ira." He is mentioned as a valiant man in David's service [[2 Samuel 23:26]].
* `{{H2388}}` **châzaq** (repaired): This word, meaning "to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong... repair, fortify," describes the dedicated labor of the Tekoites in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem [[Nehemiah 3:5]].
* `{{H802}}` **ʼishshâh** (woman): A general term for "a woman," it identifies the wise counselor from Tekoah who interceded before King David [[2 Samuel 14:4]].
* `{{H117}}` **ʼaddîyr** (nobles): Meaning "powerful; excellent, famous... noble, principal," this term describes the leaders of the Tekoites who notably refused to participate in the rebuilding effort [[Nehemiah 3:5]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H8621}}` is seen through the actions of the people it identifies.
* **Wisdom and Reconciliation:** The woman of Tekoah acts as a vehicle for wisdom and diplomacy, successfully appealing to the king to facilitate reconciliation within the royal household ([[2 Samuel 14:4]], 9).
* **Valiant Service:** The Tekoite named Ira represents loyalty and military prowess, serving as a trusted captain in King David's army and being counted among his most esteemed warriors ([[2 Samuel 23:26]]; [[1 Chronicles 27:9]]).
* **Faithful Work and Failed Leadership:** In the time of Nehemiah, the Tekoites exemplify diligence by repairing two separate sections of the wall. Their story also provides a stark contrast between the commitment of the common people and the pride of their **nobles** `{{H117}}`, who would not stoop to the **work** `{{H5656}}` of their **Lord** `{{H113}}` ([[Nehemiah 3:5]], 27).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8621}}` is more than a simple geographical marker; it identifies a people who contributed to Israel's history in significant ways. From the wise **woman** `{{H802}}` who advised a king to the valiant warrior who defended the kingdom and the diligent laborers who rebuilt its walls, the Tekoites embody themes of wisdom, loyalty, and faithful service. Their narratives also serve as a reminder that leadership can fail even when the people are willing to work.
TRV