a primitive root; to cut up, i.e. (figuratively) contemplate; consider.
Transliteration:pâçag
Pronunciation:paw-sag'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H6448}}` (פָּסַג, *pâçag*) is a primitive root, offering a rich semantic trajectory from its literal to its figurative meaning. At its most fundamental, the root implies "to cut up" or "to divide." This physical action suggests a process of separation, dissection, or breaking something into its constituent parts. From this concrete foundation, the word extends figuratively to denote a profound mental process: "to contemplate" or "to consider." This transition is highly insightful, as it suggests that true contemplation is not a superficial glance but rather a methodical, almost analytical, examination of a subject. To "pâçag" something mentally is to break it down, to scrutinize its components, and to delve deeply into its essence, much like one might dissect an object to understand its internal structure. Thus, the semantic range encompasses a thorough, deliberate, and perhaps even critical, form of observation and thought.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H6448}}` is remarkably rare in the Masoretic Text, appearing only once, yet its singular occurrence carries significant weight and illuminates its precise meaning.
* **[[Psalm 48:13]]**: "Mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces; that ye may tell it to the generation following."
* Here, the imperative form of `{{H6448}}` (פַּסְּגוּ, *passəgû*, "consider") is used in the context of observing the fortified city of Zion (Jerusalem). The psalmist exhorts the people to "mark well" (סֹלּוּ, *sollû*, "walk through, survey") the bulwarks and then to "consider" (pâçag) her palaces.
* The parallel structure suggests a progression from general observation to a more detailed and profound contemplation. To "consider her palaces" with `{{H6448}}` implies more than a casual glance; it calls for a deep, appreciative, and analytical observation of their strength, beauty, and significance. It is an invitation to discern the divine hand in their construction and preservation.
* The purpose clause, "that ye may tell it to the generation following," underscores the importance of this deep consideration. The contemplation is not an end in itself but serves a pedagogical and testimonial function, ensuring that the truth about God's presence and power in Zion is accurately transmitted to future generations. This reinforces the idea that "pâçag" involves a thorough understanding, worthy of being passed on.
### Related Words & Concepts
While `{{H6448}}` is unique in its etymological connection to "cutting up," its figurative meaning of "contemplation" or "consideration" places it within a broader semantic field of Hebrew words related to thought, understanding, and observation.
* **`{{H995}}` (בִּין, *bîn*):** To understand, discern, perceive. This word often implies an intellectual grasp or insight.
* **`{{H7650}}` (שָׂכַל, *śākal*):** To be prudent, to understand, to consider wisely. This term often carries connotations of acting intelligently or prosperously as a result of understanding.
* **`{{H1875}}` (דָּרַשׁ, *dāraš*):** To seek, inquire, investigate. This word emphasizes active pursuit of knowledge or understanding.
* **`{{H1901}}` (הָגָה, *hāgāh*):** To meditate, muse, mutter. This often refers to a more reflective, internal process of pondering, sometimes with an audible component.
* What distinguishes `{{H6448}}` from these related terms is its underlying sense of methodical dissection. While other words might imply general understanding or seeking, "pâçag" suggests a more deliberate, almost analytical, breaking down of the subject matter to grasp its full import. It is a form of contemplation that arises from careful scrutiny.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence, the use of `{{H6448}}` in [[Psalm 48:13]] holds profound theological significance.
1. **Divine Call to Deliberate Observation:** The imperative "consider her palaces" is a divine invitation to engage with God's works not superficially, but with deep, analytical thought. It suggests that true appreciation and understanding of God's handiwork (whether in creation, providence, or salvation history) requires careful, discerning attention. This is not passive viewing but active, purposeful contemplation.
2. **Foundation for Testimony and Discipleship:** The explicit purpose "that ye may tell it to the generation following" elevates the act of "pâçag" beyond mere personal reflection. It becomes a prerequisite for effective witness and intergenerational discipleship. To accurately transmit truth about God's faithfulness and power, one must first have deeply and thoroughly considered it. This implies a responsibility to understand divine realities in a way that allows for faithful articulation.
3. **Model for Engaging with Revelation:** The root meaning of "cutting up" or dissecting, applied to contemplation, offers a model for how believers should approach divine revelation, whether in Scripture or in the observable world. It encourages a meticulous, perhaps even "exegetical," approach to understanding God's truth, breaking it down into its components to grasp its full meaning and implications, rather than simply accepting it at face value. This form of contemplation fosters a deeper and more robust faith.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H6448}}` (פָּסַג, *pâçag*), though appearing only once in the biblical text, provides a potent insight into the nature of profound contemplation. Derived from a primitive root meaning "to cut up" or "to divide," its figurative sense denotes a deep, analytical "consideration" or "contemplation." This unique etymology suggests that true understanding comes from a methodical, almost dissecting, examination of a subject. Its sole occurrence in [[Psalm 48:13]], where it commands the people to "consider her palaces," underscores a divine call for careful, deliberate observation of God's works. This act of "pâçag" is not merely for personal edification but serves a crucial purpose: to enable the accurate transmission of truth to future generations. Thus, `{{H6448}}` encapsulates a call to deep, purposeful engagement with divine realities, fostering a robust understanding that can be faithfully declared and passed on.
TRV