from יָפַח; properly, puffing, i.e. (figuratively) meditating; such as breathe out.
Transliteration:yâphêach
Pronunciation:yaw-fay'-akh
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word יָפֵחַ (yâphêach, `{{H3307}}`) is derived from the verbal root יָפַח (yaphach), which fundamentally means "to breathe out," "to puff," or "to blow." As a participle or adjectival form, יָפֵחַ literally denotes "one who breathes out" or "one who puffs." The semantic range extends figuratively to "meditating," suggesting a deep, internal mental process, often accompanied by quiet exhalation or a low murmur, indicative of profound thought or intense focus. This connection to breath links the word to the very essence of life and inner being in Hebrew thought, implying that what is "breathed out" originates from one's core.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word יָפֵחַ (yâphêach, `{{H3307}}`) appears only once in the Masoretic Text, found in the book of Proverbs:
* [[Proverbs 6:19]]: "a false witness *who breathes out* lies, and one who sows discord among brothers." (וְעֵד שֶׁקֶר יָפֵחַ כְּזָבִים)
In this singular occurrence, the figurative sense of "meditating" is less prominent than the literal "breathing out," applied directly to the utterance of falsehoods. The phrase "breathes out lies" (יָפֵחַ כְּזָבִים) powerfully depicts a witness whose testimony is characterized by the effortless and perhaps even forceful expulsion of deceit, much like one exhales breath. It emphasizes the naturalness and habitual nature of lying for such an individual, suggesting that falsehood flows from them without conscious effort or restraint. This usage highlights the outward manifestation of an internal disposition, where the act of speaking lies is as intrinsic as breathing.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Root יָפַח (yaphach):** The verbal root from which H3307 is derived. This root is used elsewhere to describe "breathing out" or "sighing," often in contexts of distress or expiration of life, such as in [[Jeremiah 4:31]] where a person "breathes out her life."
* **Words for "Breath" or "Spirit":** The concept of breath is central to biblical anthropology. Related terms include נֶפֶשׁ (nephesh, `{{H5315}}`), often translated as "soul" or "life-breath," and רוּחַ (ruach, `{{H7307}}`), meaning "spirit," "wind," or "breath." The connection of יָפֵחַ to breath underscores its link to the core of human existence and expression.
* **Words for "Speaking" or "Uttering":** Verbs like דָּבַר (dabar, `{{H1696}}`, "to speak") and אָמַר (amar, `{{H559}}`, "to say") describe the general act of communication. יָפֵחַ adds a specific nuance, implying an utterance that is deeply ingrained, perhaps effortless, or even forcefully expelled from within.
* **Words for "Lies" or "Falsehood":** The noun שֶׁקֶר (sheqer, `{{H8267}}`), meaning "lie" or "falsehood," is critically paired with יָפֵחַ in [[Proverbs 6:19]], defining the content of what is "breathed out."
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of יָפֵחַ (yâphêach, `{{H3307}}`) in [[Proverbs 6:19]] places it within a profound theological context. This verse is part of a list of "six things the LORD hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him," underscoring the severe displeasure God has for such behaviors. The imagery of "breathing out lies" is theologically significant for several reasons:
1. **Perversion of God-Given Faculties:** Breath is often associated with life and the divine spark (e.g., God breathing life into Adam in [[Genesis 2:7]]). To "breathe out lies" represents a profound perversion of this God-given capacity for speech and life. Instead of being an instrument of truth and life, it becomes a conduit for deceit and destruction.
2. **Innate Deceit:** The metaphor suggests that lying is not merely an occasional act but an ingrained characteristic, as natural and effortless as breathing for the wicked. This aligns with a broader biblical understanding that outward actions (what one "breathes out") are manifestations of the inner heart and character.
3. **Moral Abomination:** Being listed among the "abominations" to the Lord, the act of a false witness "breathing out lies" highlights the grave offense it poses to God's character, which is truth (e.g., [[John 14:6]]). It disrupts justice, corrupts relationships, and undermines the very fabric of a righteous society.
### Summary
The Hebrew term יָפֵחַ (yâphêach, `{{H3307}}`), derived from the root "to breathe out" or "to puff," uniquely appears in [[Proverbs 6:19]]. Here, it vividly describes a "false witness who breathes out lies" (יָפֵחַ כְּזָבִים). This powerful imagery conveys that for such an individual, uttering falsehoods is as natural and effortless as exhaling, signifying an ingrained disposition towards deceit rather than an isolated act. Theologically, this sole occurrence is highly significant, categorizing the "breathing out of lies" as an abomination to the Lord. It underscores the perversion of a fundamental human capacity for speech and life, transforming it into an instrument of falsehood that disrupts truth, justice, and community, revealing a heart deeply opposed to God's righteous character.
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