Pekod is a term found in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the prophetic literature, and is used as a designation for a region or people associated with Chaldea, an area in southern Mesopotamia. The name appears in the context of divine judgment and prophecy, reflecting the broader biblical narrative concerning the nations surrounding Israel and Judah.

Biblical References:

1. Jeremiah 50:21 : "Go up against the land of Merathaim, and against the residents of Pekod. Pursue, kill, and completely destroy them, declares the LORD. Do everything I have commanded you." In this passage, Pekod is mentioned as a target of divine retribution. The prophet Jeremiah, speaking the words of the LORD, commands an assault against Pekod as part of a broader judgment against Babylon and its territories. This reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty over nations and His use of historical events to fulfill His purposes.

2. Ezekiel 23:23 : "The Babylonians and all the Chaldeans, the men of Pekod, Shoa, and Koa, and all the Assyrians with them—all desirable young men, governors and commanders, officers and men of renown, mounted on horses." Here, Pekod is listed among the allies and constituents of Babylon. The context is a symbolic portrayal of Jerusalem's unfaithfulness, depicted through the allegory of two sisters, Oholah and Oholibah, representing Samaria and Jerusalem. The mention of Pekod alongside other regions and peoples underscores the geopolitical alliances and military might that characterized the Babylonian empire.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Pekod is often identified with a region in southern Mesopotamia, possibly near the Tigris River, within the broader area known as Chaldea. The Chaldeans were a Semitic people who rose to prominence in the late 7th and early 6th centuries BC, eventually establishing the Neo-Babylonian Empire. This empire, under rulers such as Nebuchadnezzar II, played a significant role in the history of the ancient Near East, including the conquest and exile of Judah.

The use of Pekod in the biblical text may reflect a specific tribe or district within the Chaldean domain, known for its military prowess or strategic importance. The prophetic references to Pekod highlight the themes of judgment and the transient nature of earthly powers, as even mighty empires are subject to the will of God.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Pekod in the Bible serves as a reminder of God's justice and the fulfillment of His prophetic word. The judgment pronounced upon Pekod and its associates is consistent with the biblical narrative of divine retribution against nations that oppose God's people or engage in idolatry and wickedness. The prophets, through their oracles, convey the message that no nation, regardless of its strength or alliances, can withstand the decrees of the Almighty.

Furthermore, the inclusion of Pekod in the prophetic literature underscores the interconnectedness of the ancient Near Eastern world and the role of Israel and Judah within that context. The biblical text presents a worldview in which God's covenant relationship with His people is central, and the rise and fall of nations are seen as part of His redemptive plan for humanity.Jeremiah 50:21
Go up against the land of Merathaim, even against it, and against the inhabitants of Pekod: waste and utterly destroy after them, said the LORD, and do according to all that I have commanded you.
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Ezekiel 23:23
The Babylonians, and all the Chaldeans, Pekod, and Shoa, and Koa, and all the Assyrians with them: all of them desirable young men, captains and rulers, great lords and renowned, all of them riding on horses.
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