a primitive root; to slice, i.e. break open or pierce; bring forth, cleave, cut, shred, strike through.
Transliteration:pâlach
Pronunciation:paw-lakh'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root פָּלַח (pâlach, `{{H6398}}`) is a primitive root carrying the core semantic range of forceful penetration, division, or emergence through a barrier. Its primary meaning revolves around the action of "to slice," "to break open," or "to pierce." This implies a decisive, often violent, act that separates, penetrates, or creates an opening. The extended definitions, such as "cleave," "cut," "shred," and "strike through," further emphasize this sense of forceful severance or impact. The nuance of "bring forth" suggests the result of such a breaking open—the emergence of something from within a confined space, or the creation of a passage for something to come out. Thus, *pâlach* denotes an action that fundamentally alters the integrity of an object or a boundary, either by dividing it or by passing through it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While not among the most frequently occurring Hebrew roots, פָּלַח (pâlach, `{{H6398}}`) appears in contexts that highlight its physical and often impactful nature. It is consistently used to describe concrete actions of piercing, cleaving, or breaking open. For instance, it can describe a weapon piercing a body, as seen in the striking through of an enemy in battle, or the act of cleaving a material like wood or rock. The sense of "breaking open" can also apply to the earth itself, perhaps in the context of springs bursting forth or ground being tilled. The specific usage of "bring forth" implies an outcome where something previously contained or hidden is released due to the act of breaking through. The contexts are invariably literal and depict a forceful, physical interaction with an object or a person, emphasizing the power and effect of the action.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of פָּלַח (pâlach, `{{H6398}}`) intersects with several other Hebrew terms related to cutting, piercing, and breaking. Words like `{{H3772}}` (kārath, "to cut off," "to make a covenant by cutting"), `{{H1494}}` (gāzaz, "to cut," "to shear"), and `{{H5344}}` (nāqar, "to bore," "to pierce out") share the notion of severance or penetration. Similarly, `{{H6555}}` (pāraṣ, "to break through," "to burst forth") and `{{H7665}}` (shābar, "to break," "to shatter") resonate with the idea of breaking open or destroying integrity. However, *pâlach* carries a specific nuance of a decisive, often surgical, act of piercing or cleaving, rather than a general breaking or shattering. Conceptually, it aligns with themes of division, penetration, and the forceful creation of an opening or passage, often with a sense of finality or significant consequence.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of פָּלַח (pâlach, `{{H6398}}`) is primarily derived from its application in describing divine action or the consequences of divine will. While not a word with inherent theological depth like "love" or "righteousness," its usage in describing forceful acts can illustrate God's power, judgment, or even provision. For example, God's judgment can be depicted as "striking through" or "piercing" the wicked. Conversely, God's provision might be symbolized by "breaking open" a source of water in a barren land, as seen in the wilderness narratives. The act of "bringing forth" can also allude to God's creative power in causing life to emerge or His redemptive power in delivering His people from bondage. The physicality of *pâlach* serves to underscore the tangible and effective nature of God's intervention in the world, whether in judgment or salvation.
### Summary
The Hebrew root פָּלַח (pâlach, `{{H6398}}`) fundamentally conveys the action of "to slice," "to break open," or "to pierce." It describes a forceful and decisive physical act that results in division, penetration, or the emergence of something from within. Its biblical occurrences consistently reflect these literal meanings, depicting actions such as piercing with a weapon, cleaving materials, or breaking open the earth. Semantically, it is related to other words denoting cutting and breaking, yet it maintains its specific emphasis on a focused act of penetration or severance. Theologically, *pâlach* contributes to the biblical portrayal of God's powerful and effective action in the world, whether in judgment, provision, or the bringing forth of His purposes.
TRV