a primitive root; to hop, i.e. (figuratively) skip over (or spare); by implication, to hesitate; also (literally) to limp, to dance; halt, become lame, leap, pass over.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pâçach**, represented by `{{H6452}}`, is a primitive root with a dynamic range of meanings including to hop, limp, hesitate, and to pass over or spare. It appears **7 times** in **7 unique verses**, and its application shifts from describing physical disability and frantic ritual to a profound act of divine deliverance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6452}}` carries both literal and figurative weight. Its most significant application is in the book of Exodus, where God promises to **pass over** the homes of the Israelites marked with blood, sparing them from the plague that would smite the Egyptians ([[Exodus 12:13]], [[Exodus 12:23]]). This act becomes the foundation of the Passover sacrifice [[Exodus 12:27]]. The word is used literally to describe how Mephibosheth **became lame** after a fall [[2 Samuel 4:4]] and how the prophets of Baal **leaped** upon the altar in their ritual [[1 Kings 18:26]]. Figuratively, Elijah uses it to challenge the Israelites, asking how long they will **halt** between two opinions [[1 Kings 18:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the context and meaning of `{{H6452}}`:
* `{{H5063}}` **negeph** (plague, stumbling): This is the specific consequence that God’s act of "passing over" prevents. The **plague** would not come upon the Israelites because God **passed over** them [[Exodus 12:13]].
* `{{H3212}}` **yâlak** (to walk, follow): This word stands in direct contrast to the hesitation implied by **pâçach**. Elijah challenges the people to stop halting `{{H6452}}` and instead to **follow** the true God [[1 Kings 18:21]].
* `{{H5223}}` **nâkeh** (lame, contrite): This term is used to describe the state of Mephibosheth, who **became lame** `{{H6452}}` after his nurse fled with him [[2 Samuel 4:4]], directly linking the action to the resulting condition.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6452}}` is primarily centered on God's sovereignty and mercy.
* **Divine Deliverance:** The concept of God "passing over" is a cornerstone of his saving power. In Exodus, it represents a selective, protective act that spares His people from judgment [[Exodus 12:27]]. This theme is echoed in Isaiah, where the Lord's **passing over** is equated with His commitment to **defend** and **preserve** Jerusalem [[Isaiah 31:5]].
* **Spiritual Indecision:** Elijah's use of the word to mean "halt" frames spiritual indecisiveness as a critical flaw. To waver between the LORD and Baal is a form of spiritual paralysis, a failure to commit to the covenant God [[1 Kings 18:21]].
* **Physical Weakness:** The use of `{{H6452}}` to describe Mephibosheth becoming lame illustrates a state of human frailty and brokenness resulting from a traumatic event [[2 Samuel 4:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6452}}` is a multifaceted word that encompasses physical motion, spiritual posture, and divine action. From the literal limping of a man and the leaping of false prophets to the figurative hesitation of a nation, its meaning is varied. However, its most enduring significance is theological, defining the foundational Passover event where God's act of "passing over" becomes the ultimate expression of His power to deliver and preserve His people from destruction.
TRV