Bakbukiah is a lesser-known figure in the Old Testament, specifically mentioned in the books of Nehemiah. He is recognized as a Levite, a member of the tribe set apart for religious duties and temple service in ancient Israel. The Levites held a unique position among the tribes of Israel, being entrusted with the care of the tabernacle and later the temple, as well as various liturgical functions.

Biblical References:

Bakbukiah is mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period, a time when the Jewish people were returning from Babylonian captivity and re-establishing their religious and communal life in Jerusalem. His name appears in the book of Nehemiah, which details the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls and the reorganization of the community under Nehemiah's leadership.

1. Nehemiah 11:17 : "Mattaniah son of Mica, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, the leader who led in thanksgiving and prayer; Bakbukiah, second among his associates; and Abda son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun."

In this passage, Bakbukiah is identified as one of the Levites who played a significant role in the worship practices of the restored community. He is noted as being "second among his associates," indicating a position of responsibility and leadership in the liturgical functions, particularly in thanksgiving and prayer.

2. Nehemiah 12:9 : "Bakbukiah and Unni, their associates, stood opposite them in the services."

Here, Bakbukiah is mentioned again in the context of the Levitical duties. The Levites, including Bakbukiah, were responsible for standing opposite their fellow Levites during the services, which suggests a structured and organized approach to worship, emphasizing the importance of order and reverence in the temple rituals.

3. Nehemiah 12:25 : "Mattaniah, Bakbukiah, Obadiah, Meshullam, Talmon, and Akkub were gatekeepers who guarded the storerooms at the gates."

This verse highlights Bakbukiah's role as a gatekeeper, a position of trust and responsibility. Gatekeepers were crucial in maintaining the sanctity and security of the temple, ensuring that only those who were ceremonially clean could enter and that the temple's treasures were protected.

Role and Significance:

Bakbukiah's role as a Levite during the time of Nehemiah underscores the importance of the Levitical order in the spiritual and communal life of Israel. His involvement in thanksgiving, prayer, and as a gatekeeper reflects the multifaceted responsibilities of the Levites, who were not only musicians and singers but also guardians of the temple's sanctity.

The mention of Bakbukiah in the context of the post-exilic community highlights the continuity of Levitical service from the time of Moses through the Babylonian exile and into the restoration period. His service exemplifies the dedication and faithfulness required of those who served in the house of the Lord, contributing to the spiritual renewal and stability of the Jewish community in Jerusalem.

Bakbukiah's presence in the biblical narrative, though brief, serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Levites and their critical role in upholding the worship and religious practices of Israel.Nehemiah 11:17
And Mattaniah the son of Micha, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, was the principal to begin the thanksgiving in prayer: and Bakbukiah the second among his brothers, and Abda the son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun.
Nave's Topical Index

Nehemiah 12:9,25
Also Bakbukiah and Unni, their brothers, were over against them in the watches.
Nave's Topical Index

1229. Baqbuqyah -- "emptying of Yah," a Levite
... Definition: Bakbukiah. Word Origin from baqbuq and Yah Definition "emptying of
Yah," a Levite NASB Word Usage Bakbukiah (3). Bakbukiah. From ...
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