### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pâṭîyr**, represented by `{{H6359}}`, means **open, i.e. unoccupied; free**. Derived from the root `{{H6362}}`, its meaning is tied to being released from other duties. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, providing a focused and specific application of the concept.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H6359}}` is found in [[1 Chronicles 9:33]], which describes a specific group of Levites. The verse identifies the **singers** `{{H7891}}`, who were chiefs of Levitical families, as being **free** `{{H6359}}`. This status was granted because "they were employed in that **work** `{{H4399}}` day and night." Their freedom was not for leisure but was a direct consequence of their full-time, round-the-clock sacred duties, which exempted them from other responsibilities.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context help clarify the meaning of **pâṭîyr**:
* `{{H6362}}` **pâṭar**: This is the primitive root, meaning to cleave or burst through, and can be used to mean **dismiss** or **free**. It establishes the core idea of release or separation from which `{{H6359}}` is derived.
* `{{H3881}}` **Lêvîyîy**: This term identifies a **Levite** or descendant of Levi. The individuals who were "free" `{{H6359}}` belonged to this tribe, which was set apart for special religious service in Israel.
* `{{H4399}}` **mᵉlâʼkâh**: This word for **work** or **employment** is crucial, as it specifies the reason for the Levites' freedom. It refers to a type of ministry or deputyship, not servile labor, underscoring the sacred nature of their occupation.
* `{{H7891}}` **shîyr**: Meaning to **sing**, this word identifies the specific role of the Levites in this context. They were singers `{{H7891}}` whose service required their full attention.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6359}}` is concentrated in its sole appearance, highlighting principles of sacred service.
* **Freedom for Service:** The term demonstrates that being **free** is not an end in itself, but a means to enable focused, uninterrupted ministry. The Levites were freed from other obligations *in order to* be fully employed in the work of worship [[1 Chronicles 9:33]].
* **The Demands of Ministry:** The application of `{{H6359}}` to singers `{{H7891}}` who worked day and night underscores the demanding and all-consuming nature of their sacred **work** `{{H4399}}`. Their special status was a practical provision for their holy responsibilities.
* **Dedicated Separation:** This word illustrates the practical outworking of the Levites' `{{H3881}}` separation unto God. Their freedom was a state of being "unoccupied" with common concerns so they could be fully occupied with divine ones.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6359}}` **pâṭîyr** provides a unique and valuable insight despite its single occurrence. It defines a specific kind of freedom: a release from ordinary duties for the sake of extraordinary, holy service. The word shows that true dedication to God's work requires a kind of separation, being set apart and "unoccupied" so that one can be fully employed in the high calling of worship.
TRV