בֻּקִּיָּ֫הוּ (buq.qiy.yah)
buq.qiy.yah
Bukkiah
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
Bukkiah is a proper name found only twice in Scripture, both within the genealogical lists of 1 Chronicles chapter 25. The name translates to "Jehovah has emptied," a phrase that likely reflects a theological perspective on divine sovereignty rather than a literal description of loss. In the ancient Near Eastern context, such names often expressed gratitude for deliverance from danger or the fulfillment of a vow.
He appears as a son of Heman and one of the appointed musicians who served in the temple during the reign of King David. This role placed him among the Levites responsible for leading worship through song and instrument. His inclusion alongside brothers like Mattaniah and Uzziel highlights the organized, family-based structure of Israel’s liturgical ministry.
Though biographical details are absent, his presence in Chronicles underscores the importance of music in temple worship. The text records him not for personal deeds but as part of a sacred lineage dedicated to praising God. This brief mention preserves his identity within the broader narrative of Israel’s devotion and order.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Bukkiah means "Jehovah has emptied." While this might sound like a loss at first glance, in its ancient context it likely expressed gratitude for deliverance from danger or the fulfillment of a vow. It reflects a deep trust that God is sovereign over every circumstance, emptying us of self-reliance so He can fill us with His presence.
In 1 Chronicles 25, Bukkiah is listed among the musicians appointed to serve in the temple under King David. His role was not about personal fame but about leading worship as part of a sacred lineage. This reminds us that our service, whether visible or hidden, contributes to the broader story of God’s people praising Him.
Even though we know little about Bukkiah personally, his inclusion in Scripture shows that every member of God’s family has a place in His plan. Whether you are singing in a choir or serving quietly behind the scenes, your contribution matters. God values faithful participation in His community and uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary purposes.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Bukkiah2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- בֻּקִּיָּ֡הוּ1×
- בֻקִּיָּ֔הוּ1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 25:4
Of Heman, the sons of Heman: Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shebuel, Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, Romamti-Ezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, and Mahazioth.
This verse establishes Bukkiah’s identity as a son of Heman and one of the appointed temple musicians, highlighting his role in organized worship.
-
I Chronicles 25:13
the sixth to Bukkiah, his sons and his brothers, twelve;
This occurrence shows the practical application of the musical ministry, where Bukkiah and his family drew lots to determine their service order before the Lord.