### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bôr**, represented by `{{H1252}}`, signifies **cleanness** or **pureness**. It is derived from a root word meaning to purify. It appears **6 times** in **6 unique verses**, primarily conveying a state of moral or ceremonial purity that is recognized by God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H1252}}` is consistently associated with the "hands" as a metaphor for a person's actions and moral character. In both 2 Samuel and Psalms, David declares that the LORD has rewarded and recompensed him "according to the cleanness of my hands" ([[2 Samuel 22:21]]; [[Psalms 18:20]]). This connection between clean actions and divine reward is reinforced multiple times ([[Psalms 18:24]]; [[2 Samuel 22:25]]). The concept is also presented as a condition for deliverance, as stated in Job: "it is delivered by the pureness of thine hands" [[Job 22:30]]. In contrast, Job also uses the term to express the ultimate inadequacy of human efforts to achieve perfect purity before God [[Job 9:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of purity and its implications:
* `{{H2141}}` **zâkak**: This verb means **to be transparent or clean (phys. or morally); be (make) clean, be pure(-r)**. It describes the action or state of becoming pure and is used in parallel with `{{H1252}}` when Job describes his attempt to "make my hands never so clean" [[Job 9:30]].
* `{{H3027}}` **yâd**: This word for **a hand (the open one (indicating power, means, direction, etc.))** is almost always paired with `{{H1252}}` to symbolize a person's deeds and conduct. The "cleanness of my hands" signifies righteous behavior [[Psalms 18:20]], while the "power of the tongue" is also described as being in the power, or hand, of an individual [[Proverbs 18:21]].
* `{{H6664}}` **tsedeq**: This term, meaning **the right (natural, moral or legal)** or justice, is presented as the standard by which cleanness is measured. The psalmist links divine reward directly to his righteousness and the "cleanness of my hands" [[Psalms 18:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1252}}` centers on the relationship between human action and divine response.
* **Moral Accountability:** The term establishes a direct link between a person's conduct ("cleanness of my hands") and God's judgment. Righteous actions result in reward and recompense from the LORD ([[2 Samuel 22:21]]; [[Psalms 18:20]]).
* **Condition for Deliverance:** Purity is not only a basis for reward but also for divine rescue. Job's friend suggests that deliverance comes through the "pureness of thine hands" [[Job 22:30]], connecting moral integrity with God's protective intervention.
* **Righteousness and Justification:** The concept of cleanness is frequently paired with righteousness `{{H6664}}` and `{{H6666}}`. This indicates that the "cleanness" in view is not merely external or ritualistic, but a reflection of a person's inner rightness and just standing before God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1252}}` **bôr** is a focused biblical term for **cleanness** and **pureness**. Though used only six times, it consistently illustrates the principle of moral accountability. By being tied almost exclusively to the "hands," it serves as a powerful symbol for conduct, integrity, and the consequences of one's actions. It defines a standard by which God rewards, recompenses, and delivers, highlighting the profound importance of righteous living in the sight of the LORD.
TRV