### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pâzar**, represented by `{{H6340}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to scatter, whether in enmity or bounty**. It appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying actions of dispersion that can result in either blessing, judgment, or a description of a people's state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H6340}}` carries a distinct dual meaning. In a negative context, it depicts judgment and exile. Jeremiah describes Israel as a "**scattered** sheep" [[Jeremiah 50:17]], and God promises to plead with the nations who have "**scattered**" His people [[Joel 3:2]]. Haman uses this term to describe the Jewish people as "**scattered abroad**" [[Esther 3:8]]. Conversely, the word can signify righteous generosity. Proverbs states there is one who "**scattereth**, and yet increaseth" [[Proverbs 11:24]], and the righteous man is praised because he has "**dispersed**, he hath given to the poor" [[Psalms 112:9]]. The term also illustrates God's power over nature, as he "**scattereth** the hoarfrost like ashes" [[Psalms 147:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of scattering by providing synonyms and antonyms:
* `{{H6504}}` **pârad** (to break through, i.e. spread or separate (oneself)): This synonym is used with `pâzar` to emphasize the state of being separated. Haman describes the people of Israel as "**scattered abroad** and **dispersed**" throughout the kingdom [[Esther 3:8]].
* `{{H2820}}` **châsak** (to restrain or (reflex.) refrain; by implication, to refuse, spare, preserve): This word functions as an opposite. It is contrasted with `pâzar` in Proverbs, which notes that one who "**scattereth**" increases, while one who "**withholdeth**" what is meet tends to poverty [[Proverbs 11:24]].
* `{{H6908}}` **qâbats** (to grasp, i.e. collect): As a direct antonym, this word describes the divine reversal of scattering. In the same passage where God condemns nations for having "**scattered**" Israel, He promises to "**gather** all nations" for judgment [[Joel 3:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6340}}` is seen in several recurring themes:
* **Generosity and Blessing:** The act of scattering is tied to righteous charity. The man who has "**dispersed**" to the poor has a righteousness that "endureth for ever" [[Psalms 112:9]]. This principle of productive generosity is also seen where one who "**scattereth**" is the one who "increaseth" [[Proverbs 11:24]].
* **Divine Judgment:** God's power is often displayed through the scattering of His enemies. He "**scattered**" them with His strong arm [[Psalms 89:10]] and "**scattered** the bones" of those who encamped against His people [[Psalms 53:5]].
* **National Dispersion:** The word is a key descriptor for the state of Israel in exile. The nation is depicted as a "**scattered** sheep" [[Jeremiah 50:17]], and their unfaithfulness is described as having "**scattered** thy ways to the strangers" [[Jeremiah 3:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6340}}` is a versatile term that conveys the dynamic act of dispersion. It carries a significant duality, representing both the generous scattering of bounty and the forceful scattering of judgment and exile. The term is applied to God's power over his enemies, the righteous actions of individuals, and the tragic condition of a nation dispersed from its land. Thus, `pâzar` illustrates how a single action can encompass profound truths about divine justice, human righteousness, and national destiny.
TRV