בַּרְקוֹס (bar.qos)
bar.qos
Barkos
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Barkos identifies a specific leader among the Nethinim, or temple servants, who returned to Jerusalem from Babylonian exile under Zerubbabel’s leadership. Listed in both Ezra 2:53 and Nehemiah 7:55, he headed one of the families assigned to serve in the restored temple. The name itself is rare, appearing only twice in the Hebrew Bible.
Lexical sources note that the etymology of Barkos is uncertain, though some traditions interpret it as meaning "the son cut off." Regardless of its precise linguistic roots, the title highlights the distinct role of these servants within the post-exilic community. Their presence underscores the organized structure required to reestablish worship and temple duties after the devastation of exile.
This brief mention preserves the identity of a man whose family contributed to the spiritual renewal of Israel. By recording his name alongside other leaders, the biblical text affirms that every participant in the restoration had a place in the community’s history. The inclusion serves as a reminder of the collective effort involved in rebuilding their religious life.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Barkos appears in the genealogical records of Ezra and Nehemiah, marking a specific family among the Nethinim who returned from exile. These temple servants played a vital role in reestablishing worship in Jerusalem. Their inclusion shows that God values every contributor to His work, regardless of their social status or fame.
When you read these lists, it is easy to feel distant from the ancient text. Yet, this record affirms that ordinary people can have a lasting impact on spiritual history. The dedication of Barkos and his family reminds us that faithful service often happens behind the scenes, yet it is essential for the community’s renewal.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Barkos2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- בַרְק֥וֹס2×
Key Verses
-
Ezra 2:53
the children of Barkos, the children of Sisera, the children of Temah,
This verse lists Barkos’s family among those who returned with Zerubbabel, establishing their place in the first wave of restoration.
-
Nehemiah 7:55
the children of Barkos, the children of Sisera, the children of Temah,
The repetition of this name in Nehemiah confirms the continuity of the temple service roles across generations of exiles.