from an unused root meaning to be torpid, i.e.; crude; an unripe fig; green figuratively
Transliteration:pag
Pronunciation:pag
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term פַּג (H6291), transliterated as *pag*, primarily denotes an "unripe fig." Its etymological root, though unused in the Hebrew Bible, carries the semantic force of being "torpid" or "crude." This underlying meaning illuminates the nature of the *pag* as a fruit that is not yet fully developed, lacking the sweetness and maturity of a ripe fig. It signifies an early, immature stage of growth, often too firm or bitter for consumption. Figuratively, this concept extends to anything "green" or undeveloped, implying a state of unreadiness or vulnerability. The *pag* is thus a symbol of the very beginning of the fruit-bearing cycle, a promise of future ripeness rather than present fulfillment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *pag* appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, each instance offering a distinct contextual nuance.
1. **[[Song of Solomon 2:13]]**: "The fig tree puts forth its figs, and the vines are in blossom; they give forth fragrance. Arise, my love, my beautiful one, and come away." Here, the *pag* signifies the earliest visible fruit of the fig tree, emerging alongside the blossoming vines. In this idyllic portrayal of spring, the appearance of the *pag* is a sign of new life, fertility, and the promise of a bountiful harvest to come. It evokes a sense of anticipation and the awakening of nature, mirroring the awakening of love between the beloveds. The presence of the *pag* marks the beginning of the season's fruit, a tender and hopeful sign.
2. **[[Nahum 3:12]]**: "All your fortresses are like fig trees with first-ripe figs; if they are shaken, they fall into the mouth of the eater." In stark contrast to the Song of Solomon, Nahum employs *pag* (here, its plural form) as a metaphor for the vulnerability and imminent downfall of Nineveh. The "first-ripe figs" (which are the *pagim*, the early, often easily detached figs) symbolize the city's strongholds. Just as these unripe figs fall readily from the tree with a mere shake, so too will Nineveh's defenses crumble effortlessly before its attackers. The imagery conveys a sense of weakness, lack of resilience, and the ease with which a seemingly strong entity can be overthrown when divine judgment is at hand.
### Related Words & Concepts
The understanding of *pag* is enriched by its relationship to other biblical terms and concepts concerning fruit, growth, and divine timing.
* **`{{H8384}}` (t'enah)**: The general term for "fig tree" or "fig," providing the botanical context for *pag*.
* **`{{H1061}}` (bikkurah)**: Refers to "first-ripe fruit," which, while early, is typically mature enough to be desirable. *Pag* precedes *bikkurah* in the developmental cycle, being even more rudimentary.
* **`{{H5108}}` (nabal)**: To "wither" or "fade," often used for fruit that falls prematurely or spoils, contrasting with the *pag* which is inherently unripe.
* **`{{H6697}}` (tsiyts)**: "Blossom" or "flower," representing an even earlier stage of plant development than the *pag*.
* **Concepts**: The word *pag* engages with themes of agricultural cycles, the passage of seasons, the promise of harvest, vulnerability, divine judgment, and the contrast between immaturity and ripeness.
### Theological Significance
The dual usage of *pag* in Scripture offers profound theological insights. In [[Song of Solomon 2:13]], the *pag* serves as a testament to God's ongoing creation and providence. Its appearance signals the faithfulness of the Creator in sustaining life and bringing forth the fruits of the earth in their appointed season. It speaks to hope, new beginnings, and the unfolding of divine blessing. The *pag* is a harbinger of future abundance, a symbol of the nascent stages of God's good gifts.
Conversely, in [[Nahum 3:12]], the *pag* becomes a powerful symbol of divine judgment and the fragility of human strength. The ease with which the unripe figs fall illustrates the utter helplessness of Nineveh's might when confronted by the sovereign will of God. It underscores the biblical principle that earthly power, no matter how formidable, is ultimately transient and vulnerable before the Lord. The metaphor highlights the swiftness and inevitability of God's righteous judgment upon those who oppose Him. Thus, *pag* encapsulates both the tender promise of life and the stark reality of impending demise, depending on the divine context.
### Summary
The Hebrew word פַּג (H6291), *pag*, primarily denotes an "unripe fig," stemming from a root suggesting "crude" or "torpid." This literal meaning extends to a figurative sense of immaturity or vulnerability. In [[Song of Solomon 2:13]], the *pag* symbolizes new life, the promise of spring, and the anticipation of future fruitfulness, reflecting God's providential care and the beauty of creation. In stark contrast, [[Nahum 3:12]] employs *pag* metaphorically to illustrate the swift and effortless downfall of Nineveh's strongholds, emphasizing the city's inherent weakness and the inevitability of divine judgment. Across its limited but impactful occurrences, *pag* serves as a potent reminder of natural cycles, the promise of growth, and the transient nature of human power in the face of divine sovereignty.
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