### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pôʻal**, represented by `{{H6467}}`, refers to an **act or work**. It appears **38 times** across **38 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the verb `{{H6466}}` "to do or make", it concretely signifies a deed, an action, or the result of labor. In some contexts, it can also refer to the "maker" of a work [[Isaiah 1:31]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6467}}` is applied to both God and man, often highlighting a direct consequence. God's **work** is described as perfect and a source of gladness ([[Deuteronomy 32:4]], [[Psalms 92:4]]). The prophets call for God to revive His **work** in the midst of the years [[Habakkuk 3:2]]. For humanity, the term is frequently tied to recompense. The LORD is called upon to reward a person's **work** [[Ruth 2:12]], and it is a consistent principle that God will render to every person according to their **works** ([[Proverbs 24:12]], [[Job 34:11]]). The term can also describe a person's notable deeds, such as the "many **acts**" of Benaiah [[2 Samuel 23:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of action, labor, and consequence:
* `{{H6466}}` **pâʻal** (to do or make): As the primitive root of `{{H6467}}`, this verb denotes the systematic and habitual practice of an action. It is used alongside its noun form when God declares He will "work a **work**" that is hard to believe [[Habakkuk 1:5]].
* `{{H4639}}` **maʻăseh** (an action or deed): This word is often used in parallel with `{{H6467}}` to describe God's actions. The psalmist is made glad by the LORD's **work** `{{H6467}}` and triumphs in the **works** of His hands [[Psalms 92:4]].
* `{{H7999}}` **shâlam** (to recompense, restore, reward): This verb is frequently paired with `{{H6467}}` to convey the principle of consequence. God will **recompense** a person's **work** [[Ruth 2:12]] or cause a man to find according to his ways for his **work** [[Job 34:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6467}}` is significant, establishing key principles of divine and human activity.
* **The Nature of God's Work:** The **work** of God is presented as perfect, honorable, and glorious ([[Deuteronomy 32:4]], [[Psalms 111:3]]). It is something to be regarded, considered, and magnified by humanity ([[Isaiah 5:12]], [[Job 36:24]]).
* **Human Accountability and Recompense:** The concept of **pôʻal** is central to divine judgment. God renders to every person according to their **works**, whether for reward or for punishment ([[Proverbs 24:12]], [[Jeremiah 50:29]]). The wicked can be snared in the **work** of their own hands [[Psalms 9:16]].
* **The Contrast of Divine and Human Action:** Scripture contrasts the righteous **work** of God with the often futile or evil actions of humanity. Isaiah points to the "act of violence" in the hands of the wicked [[Isaiah 59:6]] and rebukes the notion of a creation questioning its maker's **work** [[Isaiah 45:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6467}}` is a significant term that encapsulates both divine and human action. It moves beyond a simple definition of labor to encompass the moral and spiritual quality of a deed. Whether referring to God's perfect and mighty **work** or to the deeds of humanity for which they will be judged, **pôʻal** serves as a constant reminder of accountability and the profound consequences of one's actions.
TRV