### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pûwr**, represented by `{{H6331}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **crush**, **break**, or **bring to nought**. It appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The term carries a sense of complete nullification, whether by thwarting plans, violating an agreement, or idiomatically, to "utterly take" something away.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural usage, `{{H6331}}` describes acts of definitive breaking or annulment. It is used to illustrate God's sovereignty over the nations, where He **bringeth** the counsel of the heathen **to nought** [[Psalms 33:10]]. The word also denotes a severe transgression against a divine pact, as when the Lord GOD declares that the covenant that was **broken** will be recompensed [[Ezekiel 17:19]]. Conversely, it is used to describe an action God will *not* take, promising that His lovingkindness will not be **utterly take**n from His servant [[Psalms 89:33]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help contextualize the concept of breaking and faithfulness:
* `{{H1285}}` **bᵉrîyth** (a compact... covenant, league): This is the object that is **broken** `{{H6331}}` in [[Ezekiel 17:19]]. It represents a sacred agreement, and God is one who keeps His **covenant** [[Deuteronomy 7:9]].
* `{{H6098}}` **ʻêtsâh** (advice; by implication, plan; also prudence): In [[Psalms 33:10]], it is the **counsel** of the heathen that God brings to nought. This contrasts with the enduring **counsel** of the LORD [[Proverbs 19:21]].
* `{{H5106}}` **nûwʼ** (to refuse, forbid... make of none effect): This word is used in parallel with `{{H6331}}` in [[Psalms 33:10]], where God makes the devices of the people of **none effect**, reinforcing the idea of divine frustration of human plans.
* `{{H2617}}` **chêçêd** (kindness... (loving-) kindness, mercy): This is what God promises not to "utterly take" `{{H6331}}`. It underscores the enduring nature of God's **mercy**, a foundational aspect of His character [[Exodus 34:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6331}}` is significant, highlighting key doctrines about God's power and character.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word demonstrates God's ultimate authority to nullify human plans. He actively **bringeth to nought** the counsel of the heathen, establishing that no human device can stand against His will [[Psalms 33:10]].
* **Covenantal Judgment:** To **break** `{{H6331}}` a covenant with God is a grave matter. [[Ezekiel 17:19]] shows that such actions carry consequences, with God promising to recompense the broken oath and covenant upon the offender's head.
* **Immutable Faithfulness:** The most profound use of the term is in what God promises *not* to do. He will not **utterly take** His lovingkindness or allow His faithfulness to fail, showing that His commitment to His promises is unbreakable, even when discipline is necessary [[Psalms 89:33]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6331}}` is a potent verb that signifies nullification and violation. It serves to illustrate the contrast between the fallibility of human plans and the steadfastness of God's purposes. While it describes God's power to **crush** human opposition and the serious consequences of **breaking** His covenant, its use in [[Psalms 89:33]] provides a powerful assurance of God's unwavering lovingkindness and faithfulness.
TRV