בַּקְבּוּק

Bakbuk, one of the Nethinim

Definition

Bakbuk is a proper name referring to an individual listed among the Nethinim, a class of temple servants, in the post-exilic period. The name appears in the census records of those who returned from the Babylonian exile to Jerusalem under Zerubbabel (Ezra 2:51) and is repeated in the parallel list in Nehemiah (Nehemiah 7:53). As a personal name, it carries no other distinct biblical meaning or sense beyond identifying this specific person. The name is only used in these two genealogical contexts to record the family line of the returning exiles.

Biblical Usage

The word בַּקְבּוּק is used exclusively as a proper name in two nearly identical lists in the Old Testament. It appears in the register of the Nethinim (temple servants) who returned from exile, first in Ezra 2:51 and then again in Nehemiah 7:53. There is no other usage or pattern; its sole function is to identify an individual within these administrative, post-exilic records.

Etymology

The name Bakbuk is identical to the common noun בַּקְבֻּק (H1228), which means 'flask' or 'bottle.' It is derived from the root בק"ק, which is likely onomatopoeic, imitating the gurgling sound of liquid being poured from a narrow-necked vessel. As a personal name, it was probably descriptive or symbolic, though the specific reason for its application to this individual is not explained in scripture.

Semantic Range

In ancient Israelite culture, names often held meaning and could describe character, hope, or circumstance. Bakbuk, meaning 'flask,' might have been given due to the shape of a child's head, a family trade, or another forgotten reason. Its presence in the lists of Ezra and Nehemiah highlights the importance of maintaining detailed genealogical records, especially for those with temple duties, to preserve their identity and legitimacy within the restored community.

Word Details

Scripture References