נְכֹת

נְכֹת

spicery, i.e. (generally) valuables

Definition

The Hebrew word נְכֹת (nᵉkôth) refers to a category of valuable goods, specifically aromatic spices or balsam. In its two biblical occurrences, it describes treasures that King Hezekiah showed to Babylonian envoys. While often glossed as 'spicery,' the term likely encompasses a broader range of precious substances, including aromatic gums and resins used for incense, perfume, and medicine. The context suggests these items were part of a royal treasury, representing significant material wealth and luxury in the ancient Near East.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the Old Testament, in parallel historical accounts: 2 Kings 20:13 and Isaiah 39:2. In both passages, it describes the contents of Hezekiah's treasuries—his 'precious things'—which he displayed to the messengers from Babylon. The usage is consistent, denoting valuable commodities that were impressive enough to be shown as a demonstration of royal wealth and power, ultimately inciting Babylonian covetousness.

Etymology

The word נְכֹת (nᵉkôth) is likely a variant or byform of the more common noun נְכֹאת (nᵉkôʾth, H5219), which means 'spicery' or 'balsam.' It derives from a root (נכת) associated with striking or pounding, perhaps referring to the processing of aromatic resins. Cognates in other Semitic languages also point to meanings related to aromatics or precious substances.

Semantic Range

Theologically, נְכֹת highlights the danger of pride and misplaced trust in material wealth. Hezekiah's display of these 'precious things' to foreign envoys, instead of attributing his blessings to God, led to a prophetic declaration of future Babylonian conquest and exile (Isaiah 39:5-7). The word serves as a tangible symbol of wealth that can become a snare, illustrating the biblical theme that treasure hoarded for personal glory can invite divine judgment. In the ancient Near East, aromatic spices and resins like balsam were extremely valuable trade commodities, often more precious than gold. They were used in religious rituals, royal anointing, medicine, and as luxury goods. Hezekiah's possession of such items signaled Judah's participation in lucrative trade networks and its economic prosperity. Showing these treasures was a diplomatic act meant to impress, but in that culture, it also revealed a kingdom's vulnerabilities to observers with imperial ambitions. נְכֹאת (nᵉkôʾth, H5219) — The more common form meaning 'spicery' or 'balsam,' used in Genesis 37:25 and 43:11. בֹּשֶׂם (bōśem, H1314) — A general term for spice or perfume. כֶּסֶף (keseph, H3701) — Silver, representing monetary treasure or wealth.

Word Details