### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pâgar**, represented by `{{H6296}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to relax, become exhausted, or be faint**. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, describing a state of physical exhaustion so profound that it halts forward progress. This term captures a moment of human limitation within a demanding situation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both uses of `{{H6296}}` occur in the same narrative event. During a military campaign, David pursued an enemy, but part of his force could not keep up. The scripture notes that two hundred men "were so **faint** that they could not go over the brook Besor" and were left behind [[1 Samuel 30:10]]. Later, when David returned, he came to these same men "which were so **faint** that they could not follow David" [[1 Samuel 30:21]]. In this context, **pâgar** signifies a physical collapse that prevents participation in a critical mission.
### Related Words & Concepts
The condition described by **pâgar** is defined by the actions the men could no longer perform, which are highlighted by several related words in the immediate context:
* `{{H7291}}` **râdaph** (to run after; pursue): This is the strenuous activity that leads to the exhaustion. David and his main force continued to **pursue** the enemy while the others faltered [[1 Samuel 30:10]].
* `{{H5975}}` **ʻâmad** (to stand; abide (behind)): This describes the resulting state of the exhausted men. They were made to **abide behind** because they were too faint to continue the pursuit [[1 Samuel 30:10]].
* `{{H3212}}` **yâlak** (to walk; cause to... go): This fundamental act of movement was impossible for the faint soldiers, who could not **follow** David [[1 Samuel 30:21]].
* `{{H310}}` **ʼachar** (after; behind): Used with `yâlak`, this word reinforces the inability of the men to keep pace and **follow after** their commander [[1 Samuel 30:21]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H6296}}` itself refers to a physical state, its context connects to broader biblical themes of endurance and faithfulness.
* **Physical Limitation in Service:** The use of **pâgar** within David's campaign acknowledges the reality of human weakness and physical limits, even when engaged in a righteous cause [[1 Samuel 30:10]].
* **Contrast with Spiritual Endurance:** The inability of the men to `yâlak` (walk) stands in sharp contrast to promises where the same word signifies spiritual strength, such as in the call to "walk humbly with thy God" [[Micah 6:8]].
* **Inability to Pursue:** The failure to `râdaph` (pursue) an enemy due to faintness contrasts with the positive use of the word to describe pursuing peace [[Psalms 34:14]] or being followed by God's goodness and mercy [[Psalms 23:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6296}}` provides a specific and vivid depiction of debilitating physical exhaustion. Though rare, its usage in 1 Samuel 30 is powerful, illustrating a moment where human frailty interrupts a military pursuit. It serves as a narrative anchor, showing the physical cost of the events and highlighting the contrast between those who could continue the chase and those who were forced to stop, being too **faint** to go on.
TRV