מַכָּר

מַכָּר

an acquaintance

Definition

The Hebrew noun מַכָּר (makkâr) refers to an acquaintance or someone known, specifically a person with whom one has a recognized relationship or familiarity. In its two biblical occurrences, it describes individuals known to the priests who are entrusted with financial responsibilities (2 Kings 12:5, 7). The term implies a level of trust and personal knowledge, not merely a casual recognition. It does not denote a close friend or family member, but rather a reliable associate identified within a community context.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in 2 Kings 12:5-7, within the narrative of King Joash's temple repair project. The priests are instructed to take money from their 'acquaintances' (מַכָּר) to fund the repairs, but they fail to do so. The context is administrative and financial, highlighting a breach of trust between the priests and their known associates. The usage pattern is very narrow, appearing only in this specific historical account.

Etymology

מַכָּר derives from the root נָכַר (nākar, H5234), which means 'to recognize, acknowledge, or be acquainted with.' This root conveys the idea of knowing or perceiving someone or something. The noun form מַכָּר specifically denotes the object or person that is known—an acquaintance. Cognates in other Semitic languages carry similar meanings of recognition and knowledge.

Semantic Range

While the word itself is not theologically heavy, its use in 2 Kings 12 reveals a theme of covenantal faithfulness and stewardship. The priests' failure to properly manage funds from their acquaintances reflects a broader failure in their sacred duties. Understanding 'acquaintance' here as a trusted, known person within the community underscores the expectation of integrity and reliability in God's work, contrasting with the priests' negligence. In ancient Israelite society, an 'acquaintance' (מַכָּר) represented a social bond based on mutual recognition and likely shared community or trade relationships. This was distinct from kinship or deep friendship. Entrusting funds to such persons was a practical arrangement based on social reputation and familiarity, a common method for handling communal projects. The term reflects the importance of social networks and personal reputation in economic and religious activities. רֵעַ (rēaʿ, H7453) — a companion, friend, or neighbor; often implies closer association than מַכָּר. יָדַע (yādaʿ, H3045) — the verb 'to know'; מַכָּר is a noun derived from a related concept of recognition. אִישׁ (ʾîš, H376) — a man, person; a generic term, whereas מַכָּר specifies a known person.

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