### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pᵉtsâlâh**, represented by `{{H6479}}`, is a highly specific term for a **peeling** or **strake**. Derived from the verb **pâtsal** (to peel), it appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is confined to the singular action of stripping bark from a branch to create a marking.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H6479}}` is found in the narrative of **Jacob**{H3290} devising a plan to manage the flocks he tended. The text states that he **took**{H3947} **rods**{H4731} of **green**{H3892} **poplar**{H3839}, **hazel**{H3869}, and **chesnut tree**{H6196}. He then **pilled**{H6478} **white**{H3836} **strakes**{H6479} in them, an action that **made the white**{H3836} **appear**{H4286} which was in the rods [[Genesis 30:37]]. The word directly describes the peeled stripes Jacob created.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the action and the object described by **pᵉtsâlâh**:
* `{{H6478}}` **pâtsal** (to peel; pill): This is the primitive root from which **pᵉtsâlâh** is derived, signifying the direct action Jacob performed on the rods to create the strakes [[Genesis 30:37]].
* `{{H4286}}` **machsôph** (a peeling; made appear): This noun describes the result of Jacob's peeling, emphasizing that the white inner wood was revealed or made to appear through his action [[Genesis 30:37]].
* `{{H4731}}` **maqqêl** (rod, (hand-)staff): This is the physical object that was peeled. The **strakes** existed on these rods which were placed before the flocks [[Genesis 30:37]].
* `{{H3836}}` **lâbân** (white): This word defines the color of the peelings, highlighting the visual contrast that was central to Jacob's strategy [[Genesis 30:37]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual significance of `{{H6479}}` is rooted in its concrete, physical description within the narrative.
* **Deliberate Human Action:** The creation of **strakes** is a purposeful act. It showcases Jacob's hands-on effort and strategy to influence a specific outcome with the resources available to him [[Genesis 30:37]].
* **The Act of Revelation:** By peeling the rods, Jacob revealed the **white**{H3836} wood beneath the bark. The term is therefore inherently linked to the concept of uncovering what lies underneath an outer surface [[Genesis 30:37]].
* **Creating a Visual Pattern:** A **strake** is not a random peeling but a stripe or line. The word implies the intentional creation of a visual pattern, which was the key element of Jacob's plan as described in Genesis.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6479}}` **pᵉtsâlâh** is a precise and uniquely used biblical term. Its entire meaning is tied to the specific narrative of **Jacob**{H3290} and his method for breeding livestock. The word refers directly to the white stripes he created by peeling rods, illustrating how the Hebrew language can capture a distinct physical detail. It is a testament to an action that reveals an inner quality by altering an outer appearance.
TRV