### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pachăzûwth**, represented by `{{H6350}}`, denotes **frivolity** or **lightness**. Its definition is derived from the word פָּחַז. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its specific and pointed usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical appearance of `{{H6350}}` is found in Jeremiah's prophecy against false prophets. In [[Jeremiah 23:32]], the LORD declares He is against those who prophesy false dreams, causing His people to go astray through their lies and their **lightness**. In this context, the word describes a reckless, unsubstantiated character that stands in stark contrast to the gravity and truth of a genuine divine message. It is presented as a key reason why these prophets are not from God and, therefore, offer no benefit to the people.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H6350}}` is clarified by several related words used alongside it in the condemnation of false prophecy:
* `{{H8267}}` **sheqer** (an untruth; by implication, a sham): This term is directly paired with "lightness" in [[Jeremiah 23:32]], identifying the fraudulent nature of the prophets' messages. It is also used to describe their visions as a "lie" [[Habakkuk 2:18]].
* `{{H8582}}` **tâʻâh** (to vacillate, i.e. reel or stray): This word describes the direct consequence of the prophets' lightness and lies, as they "cause my people to err" [[Jeremiah 23:32]]. This theme of being led astray is echoed in passages like [[Isaiah 53:6]], "All we like sheep have gone astray."
* `{{H5012}}` **nâbâʼ** (to prophesy, i.e. speak or sing by inspiration): This word for prophesying is used for both true and false prophets. [[Jeremiah 14:14]] warns against those who "prophesy lies" in God's name, showing how this divine gift could be counterfeited.
* `{{H2472}}` **chălôwm** (a dream; dream-er): The lightness of the false prophets is linked to their "false dreams" [[Jeremiah 23:32]]. This contrasts with legitimate, God-given dreams, such as those used to communicate with prophets or kings ([[Numbers 12:6]], [[1 Kings 3:5]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6350}}` is focused entirely on the dangers of religious inauthenticity and its consequences.
* **Mark of Falsehood:** "Lightness" serves as a spiritual diagnostic tool, identifying prophets who lack divine authority. It is a quality, along with lies `{{H8267}}`, that proves they were not sent by God [[Jeremiah 23:32]].
* **Cause of Spiritual Error:** The primary theological danger of this frivolity is its power to mislead. The false prophets' lightness directly causes God's people "to err" `{{H8582}}`, leading them away from divine truth and into deception ([[Jeremiah 23:32]], [[Micah 3:5]]).
* **Absence of Divine Profit:** Because their message stems from lightness and not from God, it is ultimately useless. The text explicitly states that such prophets "shall not profit this people at all" [[Jeremiah 23:32]], reinforcing the idea that only God's true word brings life and benefit.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6350}}` is a highly specific term that, despite its single use, carries significant theological importance. It defines the "frivolity" or "lightness" that characterizes the messages of false prophets. Its sole appearance in [[Jeremiah 23:32]] frames it as a dangerous quality that is inseparable from lies and deception, ultimately causing God's people to stray and rendering the false message completely without profit.
TRV