בָּחִיר

select

Definition

The Hebrew noun בָּחִיר (bâchîyr) fundamentally means 'chosen one' or 'elect.' It describes someone or something that has been deliberately selected, often by God, for a specific purpose or status. In its primary sense, it refers to the people of Israel as God's chosen nation, as seen in Psalm 105:6 and 1 Chronicles 16:13. It also applies to key individuals chosen by God for a special role, such as the Davidic king (Psalm 89:3) or the Servant of the Lord (Isaiah 42:1). In a unique, non-theological context in 2 Samuel 21:6, it refers to seven men 'chosen' from Saul's family for execution to atone for a national crime.

Biblical Usage

בָּחִיר is used exclusively in poetic and historical books, primarily in the Psalms (6 times) and in historical narratives (2 Samuel, 1 Chronicles). Its usage consistently highlights divine election. It most frequently describes corporate Israel as God's chosen people (Psalm 105:6, 43; 106:5). It also denotes specific chosen individuals, particularly the Davidic king (Psalm 89:3) and the prophetic Servant (Isaiah 42:1). The word appears in contexts of covenant loyalty, deliverance, and intercession (Psalm 106:23).

Etymology

בָּחִיר is a noun derived from the common Hebrew root בָּחַר (bâchar, H977), which means 'to choose, select, or test.' This root conveys the idea of a careful, deliberate choice, often after examination. The noun form בָּחִיר specifically denotes the object or person resulting from that choice—the 'chosen one.' Related words include בְּחִירָה (bechîyrâh, H4005), meaning 'choice' or 'best.'

Semantic Range

This word is central to the biblical doctrine of election. It underscores that God's choice of Israel (and by extension, the Messiah and the church) is based on His sovereign grace and covenant love, not human merit. Understanding בָּחִיר enriches reading by highlighting the privileged status and responsibility of being 'chosen' for relationship and service. It points forward to the ultimate 'Chosen One,' Jesus the Messiah (cf. Luke 9:35, 23:35).

In the ancient Near East, kings and deities 'chose' individuals or nations for special favor, service, or conquest. Israel's understanding of being בָּחִיר was unique because it was rooted in Yahweh's covenant with Abraham, emphasizing a relational and ethical purpose (to be a blessing) rather than mere political supremacy. The choice implied both great privilege and great responsibility to reflect God's character to the nations.

בָּחוּר (bâchûr, H970) — emphasizes youth or a young warrior, sometimes overlapping with 'chosen' in a military context. סְגֻלָּה (segullâh, H5459) — 'treasured possession,' a covenantal term for Israel's special, intimate status with God. נָבִיא (nâbîy', H5030) — 'prophet,' a chosen spokesperson, but focused on the function of speaking rather than the status of being selected.

Word Details

Scripture References