### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pᵉchetheth**, represented by `{{H6356}}`, refers to a **hole or fret inward**, specifically one caused by mildew in a garment. It appears **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making it a highly specific term used within the context of Levitical purity laws.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H6356}}` is found in the detailed instructions for identifying uncleanliness in fabric. In [[Leviticus 13:55]], a priest `{{H3548}}` inspects a garment that has been affected by a plague `{{H5061}}`. If, after washing `{{H3526}}`, the affected spot has not changed `{{H2015}}` its color `{{H5869}}` and has not spread `{{H6581}}`, it is deemed unclean `{{H2931}}`. The term **fret** `{{H6356}}` inward is used to describe this persistent, embedded corruption, which necessitates the garment's complete destruction by fire `{{H784}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding this inward corruption:
* `{{H5061}}` **negaʻ** (plague, sore): This is the affliction or spot on the garment that is being examined. The presence of a **fret** inward is a specific diagnosis of this **plague** [[Leviticus 13:55]].
* `{{H2931}}` **ṭâmêʼ** (unclean): This is the ritual status declared by the priest when a garment exhibits a **fret** inward. It signifies that the object is defiled and cannot be cleansed by normal means [[Leviticus 13:55]].
* `{{H7146}}` **qârachath** (bare within): This term describes a threadbare spot and is used in conjunction with `{{H6356}}` to detail the physical state of the decay, whether it is a hole eaten through or a balding of the fabric [[Leviticus 13:55]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6356}}` is tied to the concept of deep-seated corruption.
* **Internal Defilement:** The definition "fret inward" emphasizes a corruption that is not merely superficial but has penetrated the core of the object, signifying a deeply rooted impurity [[Leviticus 13:55]].
* **Irreversibility:** This condition is identified after attempts at washing `{{H3526}}` have failed to change `{{H2015}}` it, illustrating a state of defilement that is beyond purification and cannot be remedied.
* **Radical Judgment:** The only prescribed action for an object with a **fret** inward is to be utterly burned `{{H8313}}` in fire `{{H784}}`. This points to the principle that certain forms of ingrained uncleanness require complete removal rather than cleansing.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6356}}` is a precise legal term within the Old Testament purity code. While appearing only once, it provides a powerful illustration of an inward, unchanging corruption. It defines a state of defilement so profound that the object is declared unclean and must be completely destroyed, highlighting the gravity with which persistent, internal corruption was treated under the law.
TRV