### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pach**, represented by `{{H6341}}`, primarily refers to a **snare** or **gin**. Derived from a root meaning to pound thin, its base definition also includes a **(thin) plate** of metal. It appears **27 times** across **25 unique verses**, illustrating its dual role as both a literal object and a powerful metaphor for a hidden trap or sudden danger.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H6341}}` is used in two distinct contexts. The most frequent use is figurative, depicting a trap laid for the unsuspecting. Enemies are described as hiding a **snare** `{{H6341}}` for the righteous [[Psalms 140:5]], and a disobedient person is like a **bird** `{{H6833}}` that hasteth to the **snare** [[Proverbs 7:23]]. This imagery extends to the consequences of disobedience, where foreign nations would become **snares** `{{H6341}}` to Israel [[Joshua 23:13]]. In a literal sense, `{{H6341}}` refers to thin metal sheets. Gold was beaten into thin **plates** `{{H6341}}` for use in the tabernacle [[Exodus 39:3]], and the censers of sinners were made into broad **plates** `{{H6341}}` as a covering for the altar [[Numbers 16:38]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and imagery associated with `{{H6341}}`:
* `{{H4170}}` **môwqêsh**: This word for a **gin** or **trap** is often used alongside **pach** to describe a combination of dangers set for a person, such as in the warning to Israel that disobedient alliances will become **snares** `{{H6341}}` and **traps** `{{H4170}}` [[Joshua 23:13]].
* `{{H3353}}` **yâqûwsh**: Meaning a **snarer** or **fowler**, this term identifies the agent who sets the trap. God's deliverance is framed as rescue from the **snare** `{{H6341}}` of the **fowler** `{{H3353}}` [[Psalms 91:3]].
* `{{H6354}}` **pachath**: Defined as a **pit**, this word often appears with **pach** to illustrate an inescapable sequence of judgment, as in the declaration, "**Fear** `{{H6343}}`, and the **pit** `{{H6354}}`, and the **snare** `{{H6341}}`, are upon thee" [[Isaiah 24:17]].
* `{{H6833}}` **tsippôwr**: A **bird** is the classic victim of a **pach**, used to symbolize a soul that is either trapped or has escaped. The soul's escape is compared to a **bird** `{{H6833}}` escaping a broken **snare** `{{H6341}}` [[Psalms 124:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6341}}` is significant, primarily as a metaphor for peril and deliverance.
* **A Tool of Divine Judgment:** The **snare** is an instrument of God's wrath against the wicked. God rains **snares** `{{H6341}}`, **fire** `{{H784}}`, and **brimstone** `{{H1614}}` upon them [[Psalms 11:6]]. The progression from **fear** to the **pit** `{{H6354}}` and finally to the **snare** `{{H6341}}` depicts an unavoidable judgment upon the inhabitants of the earth [[Isaiah 24:18]].
* **The Hidden Danger of Sin:** The word illustrates the perilous nature of sin and the schemes of the wicked. The **proud** `{{H1343}}` set a **snare** `{{H6341}}` and **cords** `{{H2256}}` for the psalmist [[Psalms 140:5]], and a corrupt prophet is described as a **snare** `{{H6341}}` of a **fowler** `{{H3352}}` [[Hosea 9:8]].
* **The Promise of Divine Deliverance:** Scripture repeatedly contrasts the danger of the **snare** with God's power to rescue His people. He is the one who will deliver the faithful from the **snare** `{{H6341}}` of the **fowler** `{{H3353}}` [[Psalms 91:3]]. The breaking of the **snare** becomes a symbol of liberation and escape provided by God [[Psalms 124:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6341}}` **pach** carries a dual meaning as both a hammered metal **plate** and, more frequently, a deadly **snare**. It serves as a cornerstone biblical metaphor for hidden dangers, the consequences of sin, and the inescapable nature of divine judgment. However, it is not only a symbol of entrapment but also a powerful illustration of hope, as the breaking of the **snare** signifies God's ultimate deliverance and protection of His people.
TRV