or פֹּרָאה; or פֻּארָה; from פָּאַר; properly, ornamentation, i.e. (plural) foliage (including the limbs) as bright green; bough, branch, sprig.
Transliteration:pᵉʼôrâh
Pronunciation:peh-o-raw'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word pᵉʼôrâh (פְּאֹרָה, `{{H6288}}`) is deeply rooted in the concept of glory and adornment. It derives from the verb pāʼar (פָּאַר, `{{H6286}}`), which means "to glorify, beautify, or adorn." Thus, pᵉʼôrâh, when applied to plant life, signifies not merely a "branch" or "bough" in a general sense, but specifically one that is splendid, lush, and serves as an ornament or mark of beauty and vitality. The base definition highlights "ornamentation" and "bright green," underscoring its visual impact and association with flourishing life. Its semantic range extends from the literal "foliage" and "limbs" of a tree to metaphorical representations of prosperity, strength, and the outward glory of entities like nations or rulers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term pᵉʼôrâh (פְּאֹרָה, `{{H6288}}`) appears exclusively in the book of Ezekiel, predominantly in chapters 17, 19, and 31. Its consistent usage within this prophetic context is highly significant, as Ezekiel frequently employs elaborate parables and allegories involving trees to symbolize nations and their rulers.
In [[Ezekiel 17:6]] and [[Ezekiel 17:23]], pᵉʼôrâh describes the "branches" of a vine and a cedar, respectively. In the parable of the two eagles and the vine, the "spreading branches" of the vine represent the flourishing state of Judah under Babylonian influence, while the "noble branches" of the cedar in the latter verse symbolize the future restoration of Israel under God's hand, growing into a magnificent tree providing shelter. Here, the word emphasizes growth, prosperity, and the capacity to provide refuge.
[[Ezekiel 19:11]] uses pᵉʼôrâh to describe the "branches" of a lioness, a metaphorical representation of a powerful kingdom, likely Judah or its kings. The context speaks of the strength and dominion associated with these branches, which were "strong for scepters of rulers." This usage underscores the idea of power and authority inherent in the visual splendor of the branches.
The most extensive use of pᵉʼôrâh is found in Ezekiel 31, where it describes the majestic cedar, a symbol of Assyria (and by extension, Pharaoh/Egypt). Verses like [[Ezekiel 31:3]], [[Ezekiel 31:5]], [[Ezekiel 31:6]], [[Ezekiel 31:7]], [[Ezekiel 31:8]], [[Ezekiel 31:9]], [[Ezekiel 31:10]], and [[Ezekiel 31:14]] repeatedly refer to the cedar's magnificent "branches." These branches are depicted as "long" and "thick," providing shade and shelter to all creatures, signifying the vast influence, power, and outward glory of this great empire. The repeated emphasis on the cedar's splendid pᵉʼôrâh highlights its perceived invincibility and beauty, which ultimately proves to be a source of pride leading to its downfall. The judgment pronounced upon this tree (nation) involves the breaking of its branches, signifying the shattering of its power and glory.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary lexical relationship for pᵉʼôrâh (פְּאֹרָה, `{{H6288}}`) is its root verb, pāʼar (פָּאַר, `{{H6286}}`), meaning "to glorify, beautify, or adorn." This etymological link is crucial, as it imbues pᵉʼôrâh with the inherent sense of splendor, ornamentation, and outward glory, distinguishing it from more generic terms for "branch."
Other Hebrew words for "branch" or "bough" include:
* ʼānāph (עָנָף, `{{H6057}}`): A general term for a branch.
* zᵉmôrâh (זְמוֹרָה, `{{H2156}}`): Specifically a vine branch or tendril.
* nēṣer (נֵצֶר, `{{H5342}}`): Often translated as "branch" or "shoot," sometimes with messianic implications (e.g., "Branch from Jesse's roots").
* luwlaʼah (לוּלָאָה, `{{H3860}}`): A loop or branch, used in the context of the tabernacle curtains.
While these words denote parts of a tree, pᵉʼôrâh specifically conveys the *visual magnificence* and *impressive appearance* of the branches, aligning with its root meaning of "adornment." Concepts closely tied to pᵉʼôrâh in Ezekiel include:
* **Glory (כָּבוֹד, kāḇôḏ, `{{H3519}}`):** The outward display of power, wealth, or divine presence. Pᵉʼôrâh often represents the *manifestation* of a nation's glory.
* **Pride (גָּאוֹן, gāʼôwn, `{{H1346}}`):** The excessive self-exaltation that often accompanies great outward splendor, leading to divine judgment.
* **Dominion/Power (מֶמְשָׁלָה, memshālāh, `{{H4475}}`):** The authority and influence that a powerful nation wields, symbolized by its far-reaching branches.
* **Shade/Shelter (צֵל, ṣēl, `{{H6738}}`):** The protection and security offered by a powerful entity, represented by the broad canopy of branches.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of pᵉʼôrâh in Ezekiel lies primarily in its role as a powerful symbol in God's prophetic messages concerning nations. The word emphasizes the *outward splendor* and *apparent strength* of kingdoms, particularly those that rise to great prominence and exert wide influence.
1. **Symbol of Earthly Glory and Pride:** The frequent use of pᵉʼôrâh to describe the magnificent branches of the cedar (representing Assyria/Pharaoh) highlights the transient nature of human glory. The sheer scale and beauty of these "branches" are presented as a source of pride for the nation, leading it to believe in its own self-sufficiency and invincibility. This imagery serves as a theological critique of human arrogance that forgets God as the ultimate source of all power and flourishing.
2. **Divine Sovereignty in Judgment:** Despite the impressive appearance of these "branches," God's judgment ultimately brings them down. The breaking of the pᵉʼôrâh signifies the shattering of a nation's power, influence, and outward splendor. This powerfully illustrates God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly kingdoms, demonstrating that even the most glorious and seemingly unassailable entities are subject to His will and judgment.
3. **Contrast with True Flourishing:** While pᵉʼôrâh often depicts the temporary glory of proud nations, its use in [[Ezekiel 17:23]] for the "noble branches" of the restored cedar of Israel offers a contrasting hope. This suggests that true, enduring flourishing comes not from human might or pride, but from God's gracious planting and nurturing of His covenant people. The beauty of these branches is a gift from God, not a product of self-exaltation.
4. **Moral Decay Beneath the Surface:** The imagery implies that beneath the outward "ornamentation" and "bright green" of these powerful nations, there often lies spiritual corruption and injustice, which ultimately provoke divine wrath. The beauty of the branches masks the rot at the root.
### Summary
The Hebrew word pᵉʼôrâh (פְּאֹרָה, `{{H6288}}`), stemming from the root meaning "to glorify" or "adorn," denotes the splendid, lush, and ornamental branches or foliage of a tree. Its concentrated appearance in Ezekiel's prophecies reveals its profound theological significance. Pᵉʼôrâh serves as a potent symbol for the outward glory, power, and extensive influence of earthly kingdoms, particularly in Ezekiel 31 where it describes the magnificent cedar representing Assyria/Pharaoh. The word emphasizes the visual grandeur and perceived invincibility of these nations, highlighting their pride and self-exaltation. However, its recurring context of divine judgment underscores God's absolute sovereignty, demonstrating that even the most outwardly glorious human endeavors are subject to His will and can be brought low. Ultimately, pᵉʼôrâh functions as a reminder of the transient nature of human glory and the enduring power of God's judgment and His capacity to bring about true, lasting flourishing for His people.
TRV