The Hebrew word pegaʻ, represented by H6294, refers to an impact (casual); chance, occurent. It appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses, describing unforeseen events or circumstances. The term captures both the concept of random chance and the absence of a harmful incident or mishap.
In its biblical usage, H6294 appears in two distinct contexts. In Ecclesiastes, it is translated as chance, which, along with time, "happeneth to them all" Ecclesiastes 9:11. This highlights that outcomes in life are not always determined by human strength or wisdom. In 1 Kings, it is used as occurrent, where Solomon celebrates the peace God has given him, stating there is "neither adversary nor evil occurrent" 1 Kings 5:4. Here, it signifies the absence of any negative, unforeseen event.
Several related words help clarify the meaning of H6294 in its contexts:
- H6256 ʻêth (time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc.): This word is paired directly with pegaʻ to describe the two great unpredictable forces that affect all people, regardless of their abilities Ecclesiastes 9:11.
- H7136 qârâh (to light upon (chiefly by accident)): This verb describes the action of "chance," emphasizing how events can befall someone without a predictable cause Ecclesiastes 9:11.
- H7451 raʻ (bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)): This qualifies the type of "occurrent" that Solomon is free from, specifying it as a harmful or calamitous event 1 Kings 5:4.
- H5117 nûwach (to rest, i.e. settle down): The state of rest granted by God is defined by the very absence of any negative occurrent, showing that this peace is a form of divine protection from mishap 1 Kings 5:4.
The theological weight of H6294 is found in its exploration of causality and divine providence.
- Limitation of Human Control: The use of pegaʻ in Ecclesiastes serves as a caution against human pride, showing that worldly success is not guaranteed by skill, speed, or wisdom alone. There are elements of "chance" that exist "under the sun" Ecclesiastes 9:11.
- Peace as Divine Shielding: The absence of an "evil occurrent" is presented as a direct blessing from the LORD H3068. This implies that while the world may contain random negative events, God can provide a sphere of peace and security 1 Kings 5:4.
- Sovereignty Over Circumstance: Together, the two verses suggest a contrast between the apparent randomness of life from a human perspective and the order provided by God. True rest is freedom from the threat of negative "chance" events, a state which originates from God.
In summary, H6294 is a rare but potent word that addresses the unpredictability of life. It acknowledges the reality of "chance" that can defy human effort, while simultaneously presenting security from "evil occurrent" as a sign of God's favor and peace. The term illustrates the biblical view that while life may include unforeseen impacts, true rest is found in God's sovereign care.
TRV