### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pachaz**, represented by `{{H6349}}`, defines a state of being **unstable**. Its meaning includes ebullition or froth, which figuratively points to lust. This term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single usage highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H6349}}` is in Genesis, where Jacob delivers a prophecy concerning his firstborn son, Reuben. Jacob declares, "**Unstable** as water, thou shalt not excel" [[Genesis 49:4]]. The word directly links Reuben's character to the imagery of turbulent, frothy water `{{H4325}}`, indicating a lack of self-control and reliability. This instability is cited as the reason for his forfeiture of preeminence, a consequence of his transgression when he "wentest up to thy father's bed" [[Genesis 49:4]] and defiled it.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only context illuminate the meaning of `{{H6349}}`:
* `{{H4325}}` **mayim** (water): This word provides the direct simile for the instability of **pachaz**. Reuben's character is compared to **water**, highlighting its uncontrollable and frothy nature [[Genesis 49:4]].
* `{{H3498}}` **yathar** (to excel): This is the direct consequence of being unstable. Because of Reuben's nature, Jacob prophesies that he will not **excel** or hold a place of preeminence, signifying a loss of blessing and status [[Genesis 49:4]].
* `{{H2490}}` **châlal** (to profane, defile): This word identifies the specific sin that demonstrated Reuben's instability. He **defiled** his father's couch `{{H3326}}`, an act described elsewhere as profaning a covenant [[Malachi 2:10]] or breaking one's word [[Numbers 30:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6349}}` is centered on the principle of character and consequence.
* **Moral Instability:** The word serves as a stark warning about the danger of an unstable character, one driven by "ebullition" or impulse. This single instance shows that such a nature leads to grave sin [[Genesis 49:4]].
* **Profaning Sacred Boundaries:** The instability described by **pachaz** results in the violation of a sacred family bond. By going up to his father's **bed** `{{H4904}}` and **couch** `{{H3326}}`, Reuben's action was a deep betrayal that defiled the patriarchal authority.
* **Forfeiture of Blessing:** The term establishes a clear link between character and destiny. Reuben's instability directly caused him to lose the rights and excellency of the firstborn, demonstrating that leadership and divine favor require steadfastness, not froth [[Genesis 49:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6349}}` is a concise but potent term. Though used only once, its context in [[Genesis 49:4]] makes it a powerful illustration of how moral instability, like turbulent **water**, leads to actions that profane sacred trusts and result in the loss of one's inheritance and potential. It stands as a biblical object lesson on the necessity of self-control and the severe consequences of unrestrained passion.
TRV