The word Pîy-Beçeth, represented by H6364, is of Egyptian origin and refers to Pi-Beseth, a place in Egypt. This name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse within the biblical text, marking its singular but specific role in prophetic scripture.
The sole appearance of H6364 is in the book of Ezekiel, within a prophecy of judgment against Egypt. In this context, Pibeseth is named alongside the city of Aven as a target of divine wrath. The prophecy declares that the young men of Aven and Pibeseth will fall by the sword, and the cities themselves will go into captivity Ezekiel 30:17. This verse places Pibeseth directly in the path of destruction, illustrating the comprehensive nature of the proclaimed judgment.
The context of Pibeseth's mention in Ezekiel 30:17 connects it to several key terms that describe its fate:
- H206 ʼÂven: This name, meaning idolatry, is used as a contemptuous synonym for a place in Egypt. Pibeseth is paired with Aven as a co-recipient of judgment Ezekiel 30:17.
- H2719 chereb: This word for a cutting instrument like a sword is the means by which the young men of Pibeseth are prophesied to fall Ezekiel 30:17.
- H7628 shᵉbîy: Meaning exiled or captured, this term describes the ultimate fate of the city of Pibeseth, which is destined to go into captivity Ezekiel 30:17.
The theological significance of H6364 is derived entirely from its single appearance as an object of divine judgment. It serves to illustrate several principles:
- Prophetic Judgment: Pibeseth is mentioned in a specific prophecy against Egypt, highlighting that God's judgment extends to specific cities and nations.
- Consequence of Sin: The city is paired with ʼÂven H206, a name meaning idolatry, suggesting that the judgment is a consequence of sin.
- Total Devastation: The prophecy details a complete downfall, with the young men H970 being killed by the sword H2719 and the city itself going into captivity H7628, signifying the loss of both its people and its civic identity Ezekiel 30:17.
In summary, H6364 Pîy-Beçeth is not a frequently mentioned term but holds its significance as a specific example within a prophecy of judgment. Its one occurrence in Ezekiel 30:17 powerfully frames it as a place destined for destruction, whose fate—the death of its youth and the exile of its people—serves as a stark warning of the consequences of standing against God.
TRV