from פָּעַר; a gap; also בַּעַל פְּעוֹר); Peor, a mountain East of Jordan; Baal Peor, (for a deity worshipped there; Peor. See also בֵּית פְּעוֹר.
Transliteration:Pᵉʻôwr
Pronunciation:peh-ore'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term פְּעוֹר (Pᵉʻôwr, `{{H6465}}`) is derived from the root פָּעַר (pa'ar, `{{H6473}}`), which signifies "to open wide," "to gape," or "to open the mouth." This etymological connection suggests that the name Peor likely describes a geographical feature, such as a prominent gap, cleft, or opening in the landscape. Semantically, Pᵉʻôwr functions in the biblical text in two primary ways: firstly, as a specific geographical location—a mountain situated to the east of the Jordan River; and secondly, and more significantly, as a component of the compound name בַּעַל פְּעוֹר (Ba'al Pᵉʻôwr), identifying a specific Canaanite deity worshipped at that location. The name of the deity is thus intrinsically linked to its cultic site, indicating a localized manifestation of the widespread Baal cult.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of Pᵉʻôwr (`{{H6465}}`) in the biblical text are almost exclusively tied to the infamous incident of Israelite apostasy and immorality described in [[Numbers 25]]. This passage recounts how the Israelites, while encamped in the plains of Moab, engaged in illicit sexual relations with Moabite women and subsequently "yoked themselves to Baal of Peor" ([[Numbers 25:3]]). This act of syncretism and idolatry provoked the fierce anger of Yahweh, resulting in a devastating plague that claimed twenty-four thousand lives ([[Numbers 25:9]]). Phinehas's zealous action in executing an Israelite man and a Midianite woman brought the plague to a halt ([[Numbers 25:7-8]]). The location "Peor" is explicitly mentioned as the site of this transgression ([[Numbers 25:18]]).
Later biblical texts frequently refer back to this event as a pivotal moment of Israelite rebellion. Moses reminds the new generation of "what the LORD did at Peor" ([[Deuteronomy 4:3]]), cautioning them against idolatry. The historical Psalm 106 laments, "They yoked themselves to Baal-peor and ate sacrifices offered to the dead" ([[Psalm 106:28]]), highlighting the spiritual death inherent in such worship. The prophet Hosea recalls this early apostasy, stating, "They came to Baal-peor and consecrated themselves to the shameful thing" ([[Hosea 9:10]]), underscoring the deep shame and defilement associated with the cult. Geographically, Peor is also noted as a boundary marker in the territory allotted to the tribe of Reuben ([[Joshua 13:20]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several terms and concepts are intimately connected with Pᵉʻôwr (`{{H6465}}`):
* **פָּעַר (pa'ar, `{{H6473}}`):** The root verb from which Peor is derived, meaning "to open wide" or "to gape." This etymology likely describes a physical characteristic of the mountain.
* **בַּעַל (Ba'al, `{{H1167}}`):** A generic Semitic term for "lord" or "master," often used to denote a specific Canaanite deity. "Baal Peor" refers to the particular manifestation of Baal worshipped at the cultic site of Peor.
* **בֵּית פְּעוֹר (Bet Pᵉʻôwr, `{{H1047}}`):** Meaning "House of Peor," this place name likely denotes a settlement or cultic center near Mount Peor. It is notably mentioned as the valley where Moses was buried ([[Deuteronomy 34:6]]), further cementing the geographical and historical significance of the region.
* **Idolatry:** The central theological issue associated with Peor. The worship of Baal Peor represents a direct violation of the first commandment and a profound act of unfaithfulness to Yahweh.
* **Sexual Immorality/Cultic Prostitution:** A specific aspect of the sin at Peor, intertwined with the idolatrous worship. Canaanite fertility cults often involved ritual prostitution, which the Israelites adopted, leading to severe moral compromise.
* **Syncretism:** The blending of Israelite worship of Yahweh with pagan religious practices, a recurring temptation and danger for ancient Israel.
### Theological Significance
The incident at Peor holds profound theological significance, serving as a foundational narrative for understanding key biblical themes. Firstly, it stands as a potent **warning against apostasy and idolatry**. The severe plague demonstrates God's uncompromising judgment against those who abandon Him for false gods and engage in their abominable practices. It underscores the critical importance of exclusive devotion to Yahweh, a cornerstone of the Mosaic Covenant.
Secondly, Peor highlights the danger of **moral corruption** stemming from spiritual compromise. The narrative explicitly links idolatry with sexual immorality, revealing how the worship of false gods often leads to a breakdown of ethical boundaries. This emphasizes the interconnectedness of spiritual fidelity and moral purity.
Thirdly, the event at Peor illustrates the concept of **divine justice and zeal**. God's swift and decisive action, coupled with Phinehas's righteous zeal, underscores God's holiness and His intolerance for sin within His covenant community. This zeal is not merely punitive but is ultimately redemptive, aimed at preserving the purity of His people.
Finally, Peor functions as a **historical paradigm** for later generations of Israel. Its repeated mention in subsequent biblical books reinforces its enduring lesson about Israel's propensity for rebellion and the dire consequences of unfaithfulness. It serves as a perpetual reminder of the need for vigilance against the allure of pagan practices and the imperative to remain distinct and consecrated to Yahweh.
### Summary
Pᵉʻôwr (`{{H6465}}`) is a Hebrew term referring to a mountain east of the Jordan, likely named for a geographical "gap" or "cleft." Its primary biblical significance, however, derives from its association with the deity "Baal Peor" and the catastrophic sin of the Israelites in the plains of Moab. As detailed in [[Numbers 25]], the Israelites engaged in sexual immorality and idolatrous worship of Baal Peor, provoking divine wrath and a devastating plague. This pivotal event, frequently referenced throughout the Old Testament (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 4:3]], [[Psalm 106:28]], [[Hosea 9:10]]), serves as a stark and enduring warning against apostasy, syncretism, and the moral degradation that accompanies the worship of false gods. The incident at Peor powerfully underscores the necessity of exclusive devotion to Yahweh, the consequences of covenant infidelity, and the perpetual call for God's people to maintain spiritual and moral purity in the face of corrupting influences. It remains a foundational narrative illustrating the destructive power of spiritual compromise and the unwavering nature of divine holiness.
TRV