### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pâzaz**, represented by `{{H6339}}`, is a primitive root with a dual meaning. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its definition encompasses two distinct ideas: **to be made strong** or solidify, and **to leap** or spring. This duality connects the concepts of physical strength and vigorous, celebratory action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6339}}` is used to describe both divine empowerment and human expression. In Genesis, during Jacob's blessing, it describes Joseph's arms as being **made strong** `{{H6339}}` by the hands of the "mighty God of Jacob" `{{H46}}` [[Genesis 49:24]]. This highlights a strength that is divinely granted. In contrast, it is used to describe King **David** `{{H1732}}` **leaping** `{{H6339}}` and dancing before the ark of the LORD as it entered the city of David [[2 Samuel 6:16]]. This usage captures a physical act of joyful, uninhibited worship.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the two applications of `{{H6339}}`:
* `{{H2220}}` **zᵉrôwaʻ** (arm): This term for **arm** or force is the object of the strengthening in Jacob's blessing, signifying where the divine power was manifested [[Genesis 49:24]]. It is often used figuratively for power and help ([[Isaiah 53:1]], [[Deuteronomy 33:27]]).
* `{{H386}}` **ʼêythân** (strength): Used to describe the state of Joseph's bow, this word denotes permanence and might. Its usage reinforces the theme of enduring power in [[Genesis 49:24]]. It can also describe a mighty nation or stream ([[Jeremiah 5:15]], [[Amos 5:24]]).
* `{{H3769}}` **kârar** (to dance): This word is used in parallel with **leaping** `{{H6339}}` to describe King David's celebration before the ark, emphasizing a whirling, dynamic form of worship ([[2 Samuel 6:16]], [[2 Samuel 6:14]]).
* `{{H4324}}` **Mîykâl** (Michal): As Saul's **daughter** and David's wife, her perspective is critical to the narrative in [[2 Samuel 6:16]]. She **despised** `{{H959}}` David for his leaping and dancing, highlighting a conflict between royal decorum and spiritual fervor.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6339}}` is found in its dual application, representing both inner strength and outward devotion.
* **Divinely Granted Strength:** The use of **pâzaz** in [[Genesis 49:24]] establishes a core principle: enduring strength and stability are not self-generated but are imparted by the **mighty** `{{H46}}` God of **Jacob** `{{H3290}}`. This strength enabled Joseph's lineage and purpose to remain steadfast.
* **Uninhibited Worship:** King David's **leaping** `{{H6339}}` before the **ark** `{{H727}}` of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` provides a powerful image of worship that is physical, joyous, and unrestrained by human judgment [[2 Samuel 6:16]]. His action was a direct response to the presence of God among his people.
* **Contrasting Perspectives:** The context of David's leap, observed by his wife **Michal** `{{H4324}}` who **despised** `{{H959}}` him in her **heart** `{{H3820}}`, frames a contrast between spiritual expression and worldly decorum. It highlights that acts of genuine faith can be misunderstood by those with a different heart posture.
### Summary
In summary, **pâzaz** `{{H6339}}` is a concise yet powerful word that captures two facets of a relationship with God. Through its two appearances, it illustrates both the reception of divine strength for one's calling, as seen with Joseph, and the expressive, physical joy that comes from celebrating God's presence, as demonstrated by King David. It shows how the same root can signify both the solidifying of one's arms for a divine purpose and the leaping of one's body in worship.
TRV