### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pên**, represented by `{{H6435}}`, is an adverb used as a conjunction to mean **lest** or **peradventure**. Its proper meaning is removal, and it is used to introduce a potential negative outcome that should be avoided. It appears only **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, exclusively within the book of Genesis, highlighting its role in foundational narratives of caution and consequence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6435}}` consistently functions as a word of warning or expressed fear. It is used by God to establish a clear prohibition with a fatal outcome, commanding that the fruit of the tree in the garden not be touched, **lest** you die [[Genesis 3:3]]. Patriarchs also use it to articulate their anxieties and guide their actions. Jacob sends his sons to Egypt but holds Benjamin `{{H1144}}` back, saying, "**Lest peradventure** mischief `{{H611}}` befall him" [[Genesis 42:4]]. Similarly, Jacob explains his flight from Laban was because he feared, "**Peradventure** thou wouldest take by force `{{H1497}}` thy daughters `{{H1323}}` from me" [[Genesis 31:31]]. Abraham `{{H85}}` also uses it as a negative command to his servant concerning his son `{{H1121}}`, saying "Beware `{{H8104}}` thou that thou bring not `{{H6435}}` my son thither again `{{H7725}}`" [[Genesis 24:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the context of caution and potential harm associated with `{{H6435}}`:
* `{{H3372}}` **yârêʼ** (to fear): This primitive root is central to the motivation behind using **pên**. Jacob's use of **peradventure** stems directly from being "afraid" of what Laban might do [[Genesis 31:31]].
* `{{H8104}}` **shâmar** (to guard, beware, take heed): This word signifies the preventative action taken to avoid the negative outcome. Abraham commands his servant to "Beware" and not take his son back to Mesopotamia [[Genesis 24:6]].
* `{{H611}}` **ʼâçôwn** (mischief, hurt): This term describes the specific negative event that is feared. Jacob worries that **mischief** might befall his youngest son, Benjamin, if he travels with his brothers [[Genesis 42:4]].
* `{{H4191}}` **mûwth** (to die): This represents the ultimate consequence in the first divine warning featuring **pên**. God states that touching the forbidden fruit will lead to death [[Genesis 3:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6435}}` is significant for its role in illustrating cause and effect, particularly in relation to obedience and fear.
* **Divine Command and Consequence:** The first use of **lest** establishes a clear boundary from God. The command not to eat or touch the fruit is tied directly to the consequence of death, introducing the concept of prohibitions that carry severe, stated penalties [[Genesis 3:3]].
* **Patriarchal Caution:** The word is used by figures like Jacob and Abraham to navigate dangerous situations. It reflects a human-level understanding of risk and the desire to protect one's family and legacy from harm, whether from famine-induced travel [[Genesis 42:4]] or the potential for assimilation into a foreign land [[Genesis 24:6]].
* **Fear as a Motivator:** **Pên** often arises from a state of fear. Jacob's actions are explicitly driven by being "afraid" `{{H3372}}` of Laban, demonstrating how fear of a potential negative action from another person can dictate one's choices [[Genesis 31:31]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6435}}` is a concise but potent conjunction that introduces a negative possibility. Though used rarely, its appearances in Genesis are pivotal, framing divine commands, patriarchal fears, and critical decisions. It consistently links an action or situation to a feared outcome, underscoring the themes of consequence, the wisdom of caution, and the reality of death and harm in a fallen world.
TRV