### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pᵉdûwth**, represented by `{{H6304}}`, encapsulates the concepts of **distinction**, **deliverance**, and **redemption**. It is also translated as **division** or to **redeem**. Though it appears only **4 times** in **4 unique verses**, its usage is significant, describing both a divine act of separation and a foundational promise of deliverance for God's people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H6304}}` carries two distinct but related meanings. In Exodus, God promises to put a **division** between His people and the Egyptians, establishing a clear separation [[Exodus 8:23]]. This concept of separation is elevated to a spiritual and national level in the Psalms, where God is the one who has "sent **redemption** unto his people" [[Psalms 111:9]]. This redemption is not a fleeting act but is abundant, as Israel is called to hope in the LORD, with whom there is "plenteous **redemption**" [[Psalms 130:7]]. Isaiah further emphasizes this by framing redemption as an expression of divine power, where God asks rhetorically if His hand is too short to **redeem** or if He has no power to deliver [[Isaiah 50:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and meaning of `{{H6304}}`:
* `{{H226}}` **ʼôwth** (a signal... mark, miracle, (en-) sign, token.): This word is directly tied to the concept of division in [[Exodus 8:23]], where the separation of God's people serves as a **sign**.
* `{{H1285}}` **bᵉrîyth** (a compact... confederacy, (con-) feder(-ate), covenant, league.): The redemption God sends to His people is directly connected to His eternal **covenant**, which He has commanded forever [[Psalms 111:9]].
* `{{H5337}}` **nâtsal** (to snatch away... defend, deliver (self), escape... rescue, rid, save...): This term is used in parallel with `{{H6304}}` in [[Isaiah 50:2]], highlighting that God's power to redeem is synonymous with His power to **deliver**.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6304}}` is centered on God's direct intervention on behalf of His people.
* **Divine Separation:** The word is first used to establish a physical **division** between Israel and Egypt, an act that serves as a **sign** `{{H226}}` of God's special relationship with His people [[Exodus 8:23]]. This sets a precedent for their distinct identity.
* **Redemption as an Act of Power:** God's ability to **redeem** is presented as a demonstration of His unmatched **power** `{{H3581}}` and the strength of His **hand** `{{H3027}}`. It is not a passive state but an active deliverance [[Isaiah 50:2]].
* **Covenantal Promise:** The act of redemption is not arbitrary; it is an extension of God's faithfulness to His **covenant** `{{H1285}}` with His **people** `{{H5971}}` [[Psalms 111:9]]. This redemption is described as **plenteous** `{{H7235}}` and rooted in God's **mercy** `{{H2617}}`, providing a foundation for Israel's **hope** `{{H3176}}` [[Psalms 130:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6304}}` is a powerful term that conveys both separation and salvation. It moves from a literal **division** that marks God's people as distinct [[Exodus 8:23]] to the profound theological concept of **redemption**. This redemption is not merely a hope, but a divine action sent by God, rooted in His eternal **covenant** [[Psalms 111:9]] and offered in plenteous **mercy** [[Psalms 130:7]]. The word illustrates God's sovereign power to distinguish and deliver His people.
TRV