### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun פִּסָּה (piççâh, `{{H6451}}`) is derived from the root פָּסַס (pasas), which carries the core semantic idea of "expansion" or "spreading out." This underlying sense of extensiveness or proliferation gives rise to the primary meaning of פִּסָּה as "abundance" or "plenty." While the base definition also includes "handful," this should be understood not as a small quantity, but rather as a *full* or *ample* handful—a complete measure that signifies an overflowing portion rather than a meager one. Thus, the term encapsulates the idea of a full, generous, and expanded quantity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term פִּסָּה (piççâh, `{{H6451}}`) is remarkably rare in the Hebrew Bible, appearing only once. Its singular occurrence is found in:
* [[Psalm 72:16]]: "May there be abundance of grain in the land, on the tops of the mountains; may its fruit wave like Lebanon; and may people blossom in the cities like the grass of the field."
In this verse, פִּסָּה (piççâh) is used in the construct state, פִּסַּת בַּר (piççat bar), translated as "abundance of grain." The context of [[Psalm 72]] is messianic, describing the ideal reign of a righteous king, often understood as a prophecy concerning the Messiah. The imagery here paints a picture of unparalleled agricultural fertility and prosperity, even in unlikely places like "the tops of the mountains." The grain is so plentiful that it "waves like Lebanon," a region renowned for its majestic cedars and lush vegetation, implying an extraordinary and miraculous yield. This single usage firmly establishes פִּסָּה as a descriptor of overflowing plenitude, particularly in the context of divine blessing and a flourishing kingdom.
### Related Words & Concepts
The root פָּסַס (pasas) itself does not appear in the Qal stem in the Hebrew Bible, but its derivatives, like פִּסָּה, consistently point to the idea of "spreading out" or "extending," which naturally leads to the concept of abundance.
Related words and concepts that convey similar ideas of abundance, plenty, or fullness include:
* רֹב (rov, `{{H7230}}`): This is a very common word meaning "multitude," "abundance," or "great quantity" (e.g., [[Genesis 3:16]], [[Psalm 37:11]]).
* שָׂבָע (sava', `{{H7647}}`): Signifying "fullness" or "satiety," often used in contexts of being satisfied with food or goods (e.g., [[Proverbs 28:19]]).
* שֶׁפַע (shefa', `{{H8228}}`): Another term for "abundance" or "plenty," often associated with material wealth or resources (e.g., [[Job 22:11]]).
The concept of פִּסָּה stands in stark contrast to biblical descriptions of scarcity, famine, or barrenness, which are often depicted as consequences of sin or divine judgment.
### Theological Significance
The singular yet potent appearance of פִּסָּה (piççâh, `{{H6451}}`) in [[Psalm 72:16]] holds profound theological significance, particularly within the eschatological and messianic framework of the Psalms. The "abundance of grain" is not merely an agricultural detail but a powerful symbol of divine blessing and the flourishing of creation under righteous governance.
In the biblical narrative, agricultural prosperity is frequently portrayed as a tangible sign of God's covenant faithfulness and His provision for His people when they walk in obedience (e.g., the blessings outlined in [[Deuteronomy 28:1-14]]). Conversely, famine and barrenness often signify divine displeasure or judgment.
The context of [[Psalm 72]], a psalm often interpreted messianically, elevates the meaning of פִּסָּה beyond mere earthly prosperity. It points to the ideal conditions of the Messiah's reign, where not only justice and peace prevail, but also an extraordinary, divinely-granted abundance that transcends natural limitations. The imagery of grain on "the tops of the mountains" and waving "like Lebanon" suggests a supernatural outpouring of blessing, indicating a restoration of creation to an Edenic state of fruitfulness. Thus, פִּסָּה becomes a symbol of the comprehensive well-being and overflowing provision that characterizes God's kingdom and the reign of His Anointed One. It speaks to a future hope where God's favor brings forth an unparalleled harvest of goodness in all spheres of life.
### Summary
פִּסָּה (piççâh, `{{H6451}}`) is a rare Hebrew noun, appearing uniquely in [[Psalm 72:16]]. Derived from a root signifying "expansion," its core meaning is "abundance" or a "full, ample measure," conveying an overflowing quantity rather than a meager one. In its sole biblical occurrence, it describes the "abundance of grain" as a hallmark of the righteous king's reign, symbolizing extraordinary agricultural prosperity and divine blessing. Theologically, פִּסָּה serves as a potent symbol within a messianic context, pointing to the lavish provision and flourishing of creation under God's righteous rule. It embodies the eschatological hope of unparalleled blessing and peace, underscoring the biblical truth that divine favor yields tangible, overflowing goodness in the lives of His people and throughout His creation.
TRV