Hakkoz, also referred to as Koz, is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical and priestly records of the Old Testament. The name "Hakkoz" means "the thorn" or "the nimble" in Hebrew. He is recognized as an ancestor of a priestly family, and his lineage is noted for its service in the temple.

Genealogical References:

Hakkoz is first mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Levi. In 1 Chronicles 24:10, Hakkoz is listed as the head of the seventh division of priests during the time of King David. The division of priestly duties was established to ensure an organized and continuous service in the temple. The passage states: "the seventh to Hakkoz, the eighth to Abijah" (1 Chronicles 24:10).

Post-Exilic Period:

The descendants of Hakkoz are also mentioned in the post-exilic period, particularly in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. After the Babylonian exile, the Jewish people returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple and restore their religious practices. Among those who returned were the sons of Hakkoz, who are listed among the priests. In Ezra 2:61, it is recorded: "And from among the priests: the descendants of Hobaiah, Hakkoz, and Barzillai (who had married a daughter of Barzillai the Gileadite and was called by their name)" (Ezra 2:61).

However, during this period, some of the descendants of Hakkoz faced challenges in proving their genealogical records. Nehemiah 7:63-64 notes that the sons of Hakkoz were among those who could not find their family records and were therefore excluded from the priesthood until their status could be confirmed: "And from among the priests: the descendants of Hobaiah, Hakkoz, and Barzillai (who had married a daughter of Barzillai the Gileadite and was called by their name). These searched for their family records, but they could not find them and so were excluded from the priesthood as unclean" (Nehemiah 7:63-64).

Significance in the Priesthood:

The family of Hakkoz held a significant role in the priestly hierarchy, as evidenced by their inclusion in the divisions established by King David. Despite the challenges faced during the post-exilic period, the mention of Hakkoz's descendants underscores the importance of maintaining a clear and legitimate priestly lineage, which was crucial for the religious and social order of the Jewish community.

Conclusion:

Hakkoz's legacy is primarily tied to his role as a leader of one of the priestly divisions and the ongoing service of his descendants in the temple. His account reflects the broader narrative of the Jewish people's dedication to preserving their religious heritage and the challenges they faced in maintaining their identity and traditions throughout history.Ezra 2:61
And of the children of the priests: the children of Habaiah, the children of Koz, the children of Barzillai; which took a wife of the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite, and was called after their name:
Nave's Topical Index

Nehemiah 3:4,21
And next to them repaired Meremoth the son of Urijah, the son of Koz. And next to them repaired Meshullam the son of Berechiah, the son of Meshezabeel. And next to them repaired Zadok the son of Baana.
Nave's Topical Index

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus