### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pâlaç**, represented by `{{H6424}}`, is a primitive root meaning to roll flat, prepare a road, or to mentally revolve, weigh, and ponder. It appears **6 times** in **6 unique verses**, carrying the dual sense of both preparing a way and carefully considering a course of action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6424}}` is applied to both God and man. Individuals are commanded to **ponder** the path of their feet to ensure their ways are established [[Proverbs 4:26]]. Conversely, the wicked are described as those who **weigh** the violence of their hands in their heart [[Psalms 58:2]]. The term is also used to describe God's actions. The LORD **pondereth** all the goings of man [[Proverbs 5:21]] and, as the most upright, is the one who does **weigh** the path of the just [[Isaiah 26:7]]. In a display of judgment, God also **made** a way for His anger, not sparing the soul from death [[Psalms 78:50]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H6424}}` is used:
* `{{H734}}` **ʼôrach** (path): This word for a well-trodden road or course of life is what one is to ponder. It is used to describe the **path** of the just, which shines like a light [[Proverbs 4:18]].
* `{{H4570}}` **maʻgâl** (track, going, path): This term for a track or going is frequently the object of pondering. God leads the righteous in the **paths** of righteousness [[Psalms 23:3]].
* `{{H3820}}` **lêb** (heart): As the center of the will and intellect, the heart is where the act of pondering or weighing takes place. Scripture commands believers to keep their **heart** with all diligence, as from it are the issues of life [[Proverbs 4:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6424}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of wisdom and divine justice.
* **Moral Deliberation:** The command to **ponder** the path of your feet establishes the principle of thoughtful self-examination. It calls for a life guided by careful consideration rather than impulse [[Proverbs 4:26]].
* **Divine Scrutiny:** God is portrayed as the one who **pondereth** all of man's goings [[Proverbs 5:21]] and **weighs** the path of the just [[Isaiah 26:7]]. This signifies that every life course is subject to divine oversight and evaluation.
* **Consequential Actions:** The word connects mental weighing with physical outcomes. Men can **weigh** violence in their hearts [[Psalms 58:2]], while God can **make** a way for His anger [[Psalms 78:50]], showing that what is pondered or prepared ultimately leads to a tangible result.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6424}}` is a multifaceted term that moves from the physical act of preparing a road to the profound mental act of weighing one's life. It frames a core biblical theme: the importance of the path one chooses. Whether used of a person considering their steps or of God evaluating a life and executing judgment, **pâlaç** emphasizes that the direction and substance of one's ways are of ultimate consequence.
TRV