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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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