from פָּרַשׂ; an expansion; that which...spreadest forth, spreading.
Transliteration:miphrâs
Pronunciation:mif-rawce'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun מִפְרָשׂ (miphrâs, `{{H4666}}`) is derived from the verbal root פָּרַשׂ (paras, `{{H6566}}`), which carries the core meaning "to spread out," "to stretch forth," or "to extend." As a noun, miphrâs denotes the *result* or *object* of this spreading action. Its semantic range encompasses "an expansion," "that which is spread forth," or "a spreading." In its singular biblical occurrence, it specifically refers to a "sail," an object designed to be spread out to catch the wind. This highlights its function as an instrument of propulsion and, by extension, a symbol of maritime activity and power.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term מִפְרָשׂ (miphrâs, `{{H4666}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, making it a hapax legomenon. Its sole occurrence is found in the prophetic book of Ezekiel:
* **[[Ezekiel 27:7]]**: "Of fine linen with embroidered work from Egypt was your sail (מִפְרָשׂ) for you, to be your ensign; blue and purple from the coastlands of Elishah was your awning."
This verse is part of a detailed lament over the city of Tyre, a prominent maritime trading power. In this context, miphrâs is unequivocally translated as "sail." The description emphasizes its luxurious nature: made of "fine linen with embroidered work from Egypt." This detail not only speaks to the exquisite craftsmanship and wealth of Tyre but also underscores its extensive international trade networks. The sail is not merely a functional component of the ship; it is also described as an "ensign" (נֵס, nes, `{{H5251}}`), a banner or standard. This dual role signifies that the sail was both a practical means of propulsion for Tyre's vast fleet and a proud symbol of its identity, prestige, and naval dominance. The spreading of the sail was essential for the ship's movement, directly symbolizing Tyre's active commerce and formidable sea power.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root פָּרַשׂ (paras, `{{H6566}}`), from which miphrâs is derived. This root has a broad semantic range, often referring to:
* Spreading out hands in prayer or supplication ([[Exodus 9:29]], [[Psalm 88:9]]).
* Spreading out a net ([[Ezekiel 17:20]], [[Hosea 7:12]]).
* Spreading out a garment or covering ([[Deuteronomy 22:17]], [[Ruth 3:9]]).
* Spreading out wings ([[Deuteronomy 32:11]], [[Isaiah 8:8]]).
* Spreading out the heavens ([[Isaiah 40:22]]).
This extensive usage of פָּרַשׂ highlights the active, intentional act of extending something over a surface or into space, which is precisely what a miphrâs (sail) does.
Another related concept is נֵס (nes, `{{H5251}}`), meaning "ensign," "banner," or "standard." In [[Ezekiel 27:7]], the sail functions as a nes, linking the physical object to its symbolic role as a marker of identity and power. The broader context of Ezekiel 27 also introduces numerous maritime terms and concepts, such as "ship," "oars," "planks," "mast," "sailors," and "merchandise," all of which collectively paint a picture of Tyre's immense commercial and naval enterprise, within which the miphrâs plays a central role.
### Theological Significance
The miphrâs in [[Ezekiel 27:7]] carries profound theological significance within the broader prophetic message concerning Tyre.
1. **Symbol of Human Pride and Autonomy:** The elaborate and costly sail represents the pinnacle of Tyre's human achievement, its vast wealth, sophisticated craftsmanship, and extensive global reach. It is a symbol of self-sufficiency and pride, reflecting a nation that believed its prosperity was solely due to its own ingenuity and power.
2. **Vanity of Earthly Glory:** The entire chapter of Ezekiel 27 is a lament, prophesying the catastrophic downfall of Tyre. The very things that constituted Tyre's greatness—its magnificent ships, its luxurious sails, and its abundant merchandise—are destined for destruction. The miphrâs that once propelled its glory will become useless, a poignant reminder of the transience and ultimate vulnerability of human power and material wealth when set against divine judgment.
3. **Divine Sovereignty over Nations:** Despite Tyre's impressive display of human might and economic prowess, the prophecy underscores God's absolute sovereignty over all nations. The destruction of Tyre, orchestrated by divine decree, serves as a powerful testament that no earthly power, however grand its "spread-out sail," can withstand the will of the Almighty.
4. **Contrast with Divine "Spreading":** While miphrâs is a humanly manufactured object, the root פָּרַשׂ (paras) is also used to describe God's cosmic acts, such as spreading out the heavens (e.g., [[Isaiah 40:22]]). This subtle parallel highlights a stark contrast: human "spreading" (like a sail) is finite, temporary, and subject to decay, whereas God's "spreading" is infinite, eternal, and foundational to creation.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מִפְרָשׂ (miphrâs, `{{H4666}}`) is a rare term, appearing only once in the Bible. Derived from the verb "to spread out," it specifically denotes a "sail." In its sole occurrence in [[Ezekiel 27:7]], the miphrâs of Tyre is depicted as an object of opulence and a symbol of the city's immense maritime power and global trade. Theologically, this luxurious sail serves as a powerful emblem of human pride and earthly glory. However, within the context of Ezekiel's lament over Tyre, the miphrâs ultimately functions as a poignant reminder of the vanity and transience of human achievements when confronted by the sovereign judgment of God.
TRV