### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pidyôwm**, represented by `{{H6306}}`, is a term for **a ransom**. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. The word, which can also be found in forms like **pidyōm** and **pidyōn**, consistently refers to the price paid for redemption or the act of ransom itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6306}}` is used in specific legal and theological contexts. It can refer to a literal payment, such as the **ransom** for a life required under the law [[Exodus 21:30]]. It is also used in the context of the Israelites, where Moses `{{H4872}}` took the **redemption** money for those firstborn who were over and above the number of the Levites `{{H3881}}` [[Numbers 3:49]]. This money was then given to Aaron `{{H175}}` and his sons `{{H1121}}` according to the word `{{H6310}}` of the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Numbers 3:51]]. The term also carries a profound spiritual meaning, as seen when the **redemption** of a soul `{{H5315}}` is described as precious `{{H3365}}` [[Psalms 49:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of redemption and payment:
* `{{H6302}}` **pâdûwy** (that were redeemed): This passive participle signifies those who are the subject of the redemption. It is used in tandem with `{{H6306}}` to describe the money collected for those who were **redeemed** by the Levites `{{H3881}}` [[Numbers 3:49]].
* `{{H3724}}` **kôpher** (ransom): This word specifically refers to a redemption-price or satisfaction. It appears in the law where if a **sum of money** is laid on a person, it serves as the payment for the ransom of his life [[Exodus 21:30]].
* `{{H3701}}` **keçeph** (money, silver): This term denotes the physical payment used for redemption. In Numbers, Moses `{{H4872}}` is commanded to take the redemption **money** from the people [[Numbers 3:49]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6306}}` centers on the concept of substitutionary payment and the value of life.
* **Commanded Redemption:** The word is used in the context of a divine command where a monetary payment serves as a substitute. The redemption **money** `{{H3701}}` for the firstborn Israelites was an act commanded `{{H6680}}` by the LORD `{{H3068}}` through Moses `{{H4872}}` [[Numbers 3:51]].
* **Ransom for Life:** It establishes a legal and theological principle that a **ransom** `{{H6306}}` can be paid for a person's life `{{H5315}}`, averting a more severe penalty [[Exodus 21:30]].
* **The Limit of Ransom:** While a physical life could be ransomed with money, the scriptures indicate the **redemption** of the soul `{{H5315}}` is uniquely precious `{{H3365}}` and that this type of payment "ceaseth for ever" `{{H5769}}`, highlighting a spiritual transaction that transcends monetary value [[Psalms 49:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6306}}` provides a specific term for the price of **ransom** or **redemption**. While appearing only a few times, its use is significant, defining both legal requirements for ransoming a life [[Exodus 21:30]] and the ceremonial payment for redeeming the firstborn [[Numbers 3:49]]. Ultimately, the term points toward the profound theological concept that while a physical price can be paid in some instances, the **redemption** of a soul `{{H5315}}` is of a value that is precious `{{H3365}}` and eternal [[Psalms 49:8]].
TRV