The Hebrew term Paç Dammîym, identified as H6450, designates a specific location in Palestine known as Pas-dammim. The name itself is defined as the "palm (i.e. dell) of bloodshed." This place name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.
The sole biblical reference to H6450 places it at the scene of a military confrontation. In this event, David H1732 is at Pas-dammim where the Philistines H6430 had gathered H622 for battle H4421. The location is described as a parcel H2513 of ground H7704, and the narrative notes that the people H5971 fled H5127 from the Philistines 1 Chronicles 11:13.
Several related words from its only context help to define the setting:
- H4421 milchâmâh (battle): This word refers to an engagement or warfare and is the reason the Philistines gathered at this location. It is used in contexts where God's sovereignty over conflict is asserted, as in "the battle is not yours, but God's" 2 Chronicles 20:15.
- H6430 Pᵉlishtîy (Philistine): This term identifies the inhabitants of Pelesheth, who were the antagonists in this scene. The Philistines are frequent adversaries in the narrative of David 1 Samuel 17:45.
- H5127 nûwç (to flee): This primitive root means to flit or escape. It describes the reaction of the people at Pas-dammim, who fled before the Philistines 1 Chronicles 11:13. The word can describe both the flight of the wicked Proverbs 28:1 and the eventual escape from sorrow Isaiah 51:11.
- H2513 chelqâh (parcel): Meaning an allotment, piece of land, or ground, this word specifies the battlefield. Beyond a literal plot of land, it can also figuratively describe flattery or smooth things Psalms 12:2.
The theological significance of H6450 is tied directly to the event that occurs there.
- A Site of Conflict: The name itself, "palm of bloodshed," and its biblical context mark Pas-dammim as a place of military struggle. It highlights the recurring theme of battles H4421 between Israel and its enemies, such as the Philistines H6430 1 Chronicles 11:13.
- Human Weakness and Divine Presence: The narrative notes that the people H5971 fled H5127 in the face of the enemy 1 Chronicles 11:13. This moment of human fear is set against the presence of David H1732, God's chosen leader, establishing a contrast between human weakness and divinely appointed leadership in times of crisis.
- Contested Ground: The battle occurs over a "parcel H2513 of ground H7704" 1 Chronicles 11:13. This detail underscores the importance of the land in biblical narratives, where territory is often the stage for confrontations that determine the security and sovereignty of God's people.
In summary, Paç Dammîym H6450 is a specific geographical location whose name signifies conflict. Its singular appearance in scripture 1 Chronicles 11:13 serves to pinpoint a key moment of confrontation between David's forces and the Philistines. The event at Pas-dammim illustrates themes of warfare, the challenge of facing enemies, and the context of struggle over the land.
TRV