יָקָר

יָקָר

valuable (objectively or subjectively)

Definition

The Hebrew word יָקָר (yâqâr) fundamentally denotes something of high value, weight, or esteem. It describes objective material preciousness, such as costly stones (1 Kings 5:17) and valuable gifts (1 Kings 10:10). Subjectively, it conveys honor, splendor, and high status, as seen in the 'precious' words of the Lord that were rare in the days of Samuel (1 Samuel 3:1). It can also describe something as weighty or burdensome, like a 'severe' famine (2 Kings 6:25).

Biblical Usage

יָקָר is used 35 times, primarily in narrative and poetic books like Kings, Chronicles, Psalms, and Proverbs. Its usage clusters around two main contexts: the material value of luxury items in royal and temple construction (e.g., costly stones in 1 Kings 7:9-11) and the abstract value of concepts like wisdom, God's word, and human life (e.g., Proverbs 3:15, 1 Samuel 3:1). It often appears in descriptions of wealth, honor, and divine attributes.

Etymology

Derived from the root יָקַר (yāqar, H3365), meaning 'to be heavy, weighty, or honored.' This root concept of weightiness naturally extended to mean preciousness, rarity, and high value. Cognates exist in other Semitic languages, like Ugaritic *yqr*, also meaning 'precious' or 'honored.'

Semantic Range

יָקָר is theologically significant as it bridges the material and spiritual realms of value. It describes both God's glorious, weighty presence (His 'precious' deeds in Psalm 139:17) and the immense worth He places on His people and wisdom (Proverbs 3:15). Understanding this word enriches reading by showing that what God considers 'precious'—His word, His faithful love (Psalm 36:7), and a righteous life—constitutes true, enduring value, surpassing earthly riches. In ancient Israelite culture, value was closely tied to weight (as in metals) and rarity. Something 'precious' (yâqâr) was inherently weighty, scarce, and difficult to obtain, whether a physical gemstone or a rare prophetic word. This contrasts with modern, often abstract, notions of value. The term's application to honorable women (Esther 1:20) reflects the high social value placed on women of noble character and status. כָּבוֹד (kābôd, H3519) — emphasizes weighty glory or honor, often of God. חֵן (ḥēn, H2580) — denotes favor or grace, a bestowed attractiveness. עֹשֶׁר (ʿōšer, H6239) — refers specifically to material wealth and riches.

Word Details