### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pâʼâh**, represented by `{{H6284}}`, is a primitive root defined as **to puff, i.e. blow away; scatter into corners**. It is an exceedingly rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular usage describes a definitive and total act of dispersion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H6284}}` is in [[Deuteronomy 32:26]], within a declaration of divine judgment. The verse states, "I said, I would **scatter them into corners**, I would make the remembrance of them to cease from among men." This context frames the act of being scattered not merely as a physical displacement, but as a severe punishment intended to be so complete that it results in the total erasure of a people's memory from the mortal realm.
### Related Words & Concepts
The words used alongside `{{H6284}}` in its only scriptural context provide deeper insight into its meaning:
* `{{H559}}` **ʼâmar** (to say): This root word, used for "I said" in the passage, establishes the scattering as a result of a divine decree or spoken intention [[Deuteronomy 32:26]]. Its usage often signifies a formal declaration, as in "Thus **saith** the LORD" [[Isaiah 48:17]].
* `{{H2143}}` **zêker** (a memento; memorial, memory, remembrance): The consequence of being scattered is to make the "remembrance" of the people cease. This word connects the physical act with the loss of legacy and identity. In a contrasting positive context, God’s name is described as His "memorial" to all generations [[Exodus 3:15]].
* `{{H7673}}` **shâbath** (to repose, i.e. desist from exertion; cease): This verb, translated as "to cease," shows the finality of the action. The remembrance will not just fade but be brought to a complete end. This is the same word used for God having "rested" (ceased) from his work of creation [[Genesis 2:3]].
* `{{H582}}` **ʼĕnôwsh** (a mortal; a man in general): This term specifies that the remembrance will cease from among "men." It highlights that the judgment's effect is felt in the human, mortal sphere, where legacies are remembered or forgotten [[Psalm 8:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6284}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful application:
* **Judgment as Complete Dispersion:** The primary theological theme is judgment expressed as total scattering. To be "scattered into corners" is to be pushed to the very fringes, fragmented and removed from a place of prominence or cohesion [[Deuteronomy 32:26]].
* **The Link Between Presence and Remembrance:** The verse forges a direct link between a people's physical presence and their memory `{{H2143}}`. By scattering them, their collective "remembrance" is made to "cease" `{{H7673}}`, indicating that dispersion can be a tool for erasing a group's identity from history.
* **The Enactment of the Divine Word:** The action begins with "I said" `{{H559}}`, emphasizing the power of God's spoken word to enact judgment upon humanity `{{H582}}`. The scattering is the direct fulfillment of a divine pronouncement.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H6284}}` **pâʼâh** is used only once, its meaning is sharp and impactful. It signifies more than simple scattering; it represents a form of judgment so absolute that it aims to "scatter into corners," effectively blowing away a people and their legacy. Its singular context in [[Deuteronomy 32:26]] provides a stark illustration of how divine judgment can be understood as a complete and final dispersion, leading to the eradication of a people's memory from among men.
TRV