Original Word: נְכֹת
Part of Speech: Noun Feminine
Transliteration: nkoth
Pronunciation: neh-KOTH
Phonetic Spelling: (nek-oth')
KJV: precious things
NASB: treasure
Word Origin: [probably for H5219 (נְכאוֹת - aromatic gum)]

1. spicery
2. (generally) valuables

precious things

Probably for nko'th; spicery, i.e. (generally) valuables -- precious things.

see HEBREW nko'th

Word Origin
of uncertain derivation
Definition
treasure
NASB Translation
treasure (2).

[נְכֹת] noun [feminine] treasure (so context demands) (ᵐ5^L 2 Kings 20:13 τῆς ὑπάρξεως, compare ᵑ6 ᵑ7; derivation uncertain; Dl^{Prol. 141} compare Assyrian bit nakamti (nakanti), house of treasure, √ nakâmu, heap up [Dl^{HWB 462}], whence ׳נ ׳ב perhaps borrowed; this favoured by Nö^{ZMG xl (1886), 731} Hpt^{ZA ii. 256} (reading nakavâti = nakamâti, and Hebrew נִכְוֺתָיו ׳ב or נְכוֺתָו ׳ב)). — Only suffix בֵּית נְכֹתֹה = his treasure-house 2 Kings 20:13 = Isaiah 39:2.

Usage in Scripture

The word appears twice, both times describing the store of aromatic substances kept by King Hezekiah (2 Kings 20:13; Isaiah 39:2). In both accounts the same episode is narrated: envoys from Babylon visit Jerusalem, and the Judean monarch, proud of his prosperity, “showed them all that was in his treasure house—the silver, the gold, the spices, and the precious oil” (2 Kings 20:13). The term designates a prized category within royal treasuries, grouped with gold and costly oil as evidence of national wealth. Isaiah later interprets the incident as reckless self-reliance that precipitates divine judgment (Isaiah 39:6–7).

Historical and Economic Background

Aromatic resins were among the most valuable commodities in the ancient Near East. Harvested from trees in Arabia, India, and East Africa, they traveled northward on caravan routes that terminated in cities such as Damascus and Jerusalem. Customs tablets from Ugarit and Assyrian records confirm the high duties levied on incense, myrrh, and balm, which often exceeded the tariffs on precious metals. Royal storehouses therefore guarded these spices both for cultic duty and diplomatic exchange. The biblical notice that Hezekiah possessed large quantities underscores Judah’s flourishing commerce after Assyria’s retreat and hints at tribute received from surrounding states (cf. 2 Chronicles 32:23).

Cultic and Symbolic Significance

Though the word itself is not used in sacrificial prescriptions, aromatic gums were integral to priestly ministry (Exodus 30:34–38). The fragrance rising from the altar symbolized prayer ascending to God (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 8:3–4). By listing spices with gold and oil, the historian tacitly reminds readers that what ought to have been devoted to Yahweh’s glory became an object of vain display. The contrast between true worship and ostentatious self-promotion stands at the heart of Isaiah’s rebuke.

Theological Themes

1. Stewardship vs. Pride: Hezekiah’s blessing became a snare when he flaunted it before pagan envoys. The episode illustrates Proverbs 27:2—“Let another praise you, and not your own mouth.”
2. Fragile Security: Material abundance, even in the covenant community, provides no ultimate safeguard. The very items shown to Babylon marked Judah as a tempting prize, hastening the exile announced by Isaiah.
3. Foreshadowing of Exile and Restoration: The removal of treasures predicted in Isaiah 39:6 anticipates the later return of exiles bearing gifts again for temple worship (Ezra 1:6–11), demonstrating God’s sovereign orchestration of loss and renewal.

Practical Ministry Applications

• Personal Inventory: Believers are called to examine whether God-given resources—financial, material, or spiritual—serve His mission or personal acclaim.
• Hospitality and Discernment: While openness is commendable (Hebrews 13:2), indiscriminate exposure of one’s assets or vulnerabilities can invite harm, as Hezekiah learned.
• Worshipful Giving: The aroma of Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14–15) now surpasses earthly fragrances; generous, Christ-centered service spreads that fragrance in the world.

Related Terms and Passages for Study

• Genesis 37:25; Jeremiah 8:22 – other resins and balms in trade and healing.
• Exodus 30:34–38 – incense composition and sanctity.
• Matthew 2:11 – frankincense and myrrh presented to Jesus, linking royal tribute with worship.

נְכֹתֹ֡ה נְכֹתֹ֡ו נכתה נכתו nə·ḵō·ṯōh nə·ḵō·ṯōw nechoTo nechoToh nəḵōṯōh nəḵōṯōwInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts