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.
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.
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.
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.
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