### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pâʻar**, represented by `{{H6473}}`, is a primitive root defined as **to yawn, i.e. open wide (literally or figuratively); gape, open (wide)**. Despite its specific meaning, it is used sparingly in scripture. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, each time illustrating a powerful image of an opened mouth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6473}}` conveys a range of intense emotions and states. In Job, it is used to describe both contempt and anticipation. His accusers **gaped** upon him with their mouth as an act of reproach [[Job 16:10]], while others once **opened** their mouth wide for his wisdom as if for rain [[Job 29:23]]. The psalmist employs the term to express a deep spiritual yearning, stating "I **opened** my mouth, and panted: for I longed for thy commandments" [[Psalms 119:131]]. Figuratively, it is used to personify the grave, with Isaiah warning that **hell** (Sheol) has **opened** her mouth without measure to swallow the wicked [[Isaiah 5:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H6473}}` is used:
* `{{H6310}}` **peh** (mouth): This word for **mouth** is the object that is opened in every single instance of `{{H6473}}`. It functions literally for a person [[Job 16:10]] and figuratively for the grave [[Isaiah 5:14]], and is also the vessel for God's words [[Jeremiah 1:9]].
* `{{H7337}}` **râchab** (make wide): A close synonym, this verb means to **broaden** or **make wide**. It is used alongside `{{H6473}}` in [[Isaiah 5:14]] to emphasize the immense, expanding nature of hell's appetite. It can also refer to an enlarged heart [[Psalms 119:32]].
* `{{H7602}}` **shâʼaph** (pant): Defined as to **inhale eagerly**, this word is paired with `{{H6473}}` to describe the psalmist's intense longing for God's law [[Psalms 119:131]]. The root also carries the more aggressive meaning to **swallow up**, as when enemies attack [[Psalms 56:2]].
### Theological Significance
The imagery associated with `{{H6473}}` carries significant thematic weight, illustrating how a physical act can represent profound realities.
* **Intense Desire:** Opening the mouth wide depicts a state of deep longing or need. This can be a righteous yearning for God's commandments [[Psalms 119:131]] or an eager anticipation for wisdom and guidance [[Job 29:23]].
* **Hostile Aggression:** The act of gaping can be a gesture of contempt and hostility. Job's tormentors use it to show their reproach, gathering against him with threatening intent [[Job 16:10]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The most powerful use of the term is as a metaphor for inescapable judgment. Sheol, the grave `{{H7585}}`, is personified as a beast that **opens** its mouth wide to consume the proud and ungodly, signifying a final, all-encompassing end [[Isaiah 5:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6473}}` is a concise and potent verb that translates a simple physical action—opening the mouth wide—into a symbol for powerful emotional and spiritual states. Though appearing only four times, its context determines whether it signifies earnest desire, aggressive contempt, or the finality of divine judgment. It demonstrates how scripture uses vivid, physical imagery to communicate deep truths about human longing, conflict, and the consequences of sin.
TRV