### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pûwn**, represented by `{{H6323}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to turn**, which by extension signifies **to be perplexed** or **be distracted**. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, highlighting its specialized use.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{H6323}}` is found in a psalm of intense lament. In [[Psalms 88:15]], the speaker describes a lifetime of suffering, stating, "I am **afflicted** `{{H6041}}` and ready to **die** `{{H1478}}` from my **youth** `{{H5290}}` up." The passage culminates with the declaration, "while I **suffer** `{{H5375}}` thy **terrors** `{{H367}}` I am **distracted** `{{H6323}}`." Here, the word captures the psalmist's state of mental and spiritual crisis, a profound confusion resulting from enduring God's terrors.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Psalms 88:15]] help illuminate the depth of the psalmist's distress:
* `{{H6041}}` **ʻânîy** (depressed, in mind or circumstances; afflicted, humble, lowly, needy, poor): This word defines the speaker's core condition as one of being **afflicted** and poor. It often describes those who are in a state that compels them to cry out to God for help [[Psalms 34:6]].
* `{{H1478}}` **gâvaʻ** (to breathe out, i.e. (by implication) expire; die, be dead, give up the ghost, perish): This term emphasizes the speaker's proximity to death. It is used elsewhere to describe the finality of life, as when Abraham **gave up the ghost** [[Genesis 25:8]].
* `{{H5290}}` **nôʻar** ((abstractly) boyhood; child, youth): This specifies the long duration of the suffering, which has been present since the psalmist's **youth**. This is a time of life that can be tragically cut short [[Job 36:14]].
* `{{H367}}` **ʼêymâh** (fright; concrete, an idol (as a bugbear); dread, fear, horror, idol, terrible, terror): This identifies the direct cause of the distraction. The **terrors** are from God, a concept seen when God promises to send His **fear** before Israel [[Exodus 23:27]].
* `{{H5375}}` **nâsâʼ** (to lift, in a great variety of applications... suffer... forgive...): In this verse, it means to **suffer** or bear God's terrors. The same word can also mean to pardon or forgive sin, as seen in [[Micah 7:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6323}}` is concentrated in its single, poignant usage.
* **Perplexity in Divine Judgment:** The word powerfully illustrates a state of human confusion when facing what is perceived as divine judgment. The distraction is not from worldly troubles but directly from God's **terrors** [[Psalms 88:15]].
* **A Cry of Anguish:** Used within a psalm of lament, `{{H6323}}` gives voice to one of the most desperate cries in scripture. It expresses more than just pain; it conveys a mind overwhelmed and disoriented by relentless, God-sent suffering.
* **The Weight of Affliction:** The term demonstrates how profound and prolonged affliction, especially when seen as originating from God, can lead to a state of being mentally **distracted** and perplexed, unable to find clarity or peace.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6323}}` **pûwn** is a highly specific and potent term. Though it appears only once, its role in [[Psalms 88:15]] is critical for understanding the depths of human despair. It encapsulates the experience of being utterly perplexed and mentally distracted, not by ordinary circumstances, but by the overwhelming weight of suffering God's terrors. This single word provides a unique window into a profound spiritual and psychological crisis.
TRV