The Hebrew word yaqar means precious, rare, costly, or honorable. It describes things of great value — whether material wealth, fine stones, or persons of great worth. Theologically, it describes the preciousness of wisdom, God's Word, and human beings in God's sight.
Yaqar carries deep theological resonance when applied to what God values. The Psalmist declares that 'precious [yaqar] in the sight of the LORD is the death of his faithful servants' (Psalm 116:15) — a stunning statement that reframes death as honored and valued before God, not tragic loss. God's thoughts toward His people are 'precious' (yaqar) and innumerable (Psalm 139:17). Wisdom is described as more precious than gold or rubies. The word elevates divine perspective over human assessment of value.