עַקּוּב (aq.quv)
aq.quv
Akkub
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 8 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Akkub, derived from a root meaning "insidious" or "crooked," appears in biblical genealogies as a personal identifier for several distinct individuals during and after the Babylonian exile. Its presence in texts like 1 Chronicles 3:24 and Nehemiah highlights how names often carried descriptive weight, even when applied to those within the lineage of David or the priestly tribes.
Historical records list Akkub as a son of Elioenai and a descendant of Zerubbabel, placing him firmly in the royal line of Judah (1 Chronicles 3:24). The name also surfaces among Levites who served as gatekeepers and assistants to Ezra, suggesting that individuals with this moniker played active roles in restoring religious order after the return from captivity.
While the literal sense of the name might seem negative, its usage in these contexts reflects a common ancient practice where personal names recorded family history or divine interaction rather than moral judgment. The recurrence of Akkub across different social strata—from royal descendants to temple servants—illustrates the diverse contributions of Judah’s community during this pivotal era of restoration.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Akkub appears in the records of those who returned from exile to rebuild Jerusalem’s spiritual life. It is not a name we often see in sermons, but it reminds us that God values every person in His community, no matter how ordinary their role might seem. Whether listed as a gatekeeper or a Levite teaching the Law, these individuals helped restore order and worship after years of displacement.
When you read lists like those in Ezra or Nehemiah, it is easy to feel disconnected from such ancient genealogies. Yet these names show that faithful service was not reserved for kings or prophets alone. Ordinary people kept watch, opened gates, and explained Scripture to their neighbors. Their quiet loyalty became part of the foundation for future generations.
Today, this word invites us to consider our own place in God’s story. You do not need a famous title to matter to Him. Serving where you are placed, with integrity and care, honors God just as much as any grand gesture. Your steady presence is seen and valued by the One who numbers every star.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 8 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Akkub6×
- and/ Akkub2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עַקּ֔וּב2×
- עַקּֽוּב\׃1×
- עַקּ֣וּב1×
- עַקּ֡וּב1×
- עַקּ֑וּב1×
- וְ֠/עַקּוּב1×
- וְ/עַקּ֔וּב1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 3:24
The sons of Elioenai: Hodaviah, Eliashib, Pelaiah, Akkub, Johanan, Delaiah, and Anani, seven.
This verse places Akkub in the royal lineage of David, showing that even those with less prominent names were part of God’s chosen line.
-
Nehemiah 8:7
Also Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites, caused the people to understand the law; and the people stayed in their place.
Here Akkub is listed among Levites who helped the people understand the Law, highlighting his role in spiritual education and community restoration.
-
I Chronicles 9:17
The gatekeepers: Shallum, Akkub, Talmon, Ahiman, and their brothers (Shallum was the chief),
This entry identifies Akkub as a gatekeeper, emphasizing the importance of protecting sacred spaces and maintaining order in worship.