### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root H6480 (פָּצַם, *pâtsam*) is a primitive verb, indicating a foundational and perhaps visceral action. Its core meaning revolves around the concept of "to rend" or "to break." The crucial nuance provided by the base definition, "by earthquake," suggests that this is not a gentle or gradual breaking, but rather a violent, sudden, and powerful fracturing, akin to the destructive force of seismic activity. This implies an external, overwhelming force causing significant damage or disintegration. The semantic range is thus quite narrow, focusing on a forceful, almost catastrophic, type of breaking or shattering.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb H6480 (פָּצַם, *pâtsam*) is a hapax legomenon in the Hebrew Bible, appearing only once in [[Proverbs 3:26]]. The verse reads: "For the LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught" (ESV). The phrase in question is מִפָּצֶם (*mippatsem*), which combines the preposition מִן (*min*, "from") with the infinitive form of pâtsam.
In this context, the root's meaning of "to rend" or "to break" is applied metaphorically to the human foot. The KJV translates it as "from being taken," while other versions render it as "caught" (ESV), "snared" (NIV), or "shattered" (NRSV). The imagery is one of protection from sudden, unforeseen dangers that could cause a severe injury or incapacitation. While not a literal earthquake, the force implied by pâtsam suggests a powerful, perhaps unseen, trap or obstacle that could violently "break" or "shatter" the foot, leading to a fall or severe harm. The verse assures the one who trusts in the Lord that divine providence will safeguard them from such sudden, devastating disruptions to their path and well-being.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given its status as a hapax legomenon, H6480 (פָּצַם, *pâtsam*) does not have direct lexical relatives in the Hebrew Bible. However, its semantic field connects it to several other Hebrew words that describe various forms of breaking, shattering, or divine protection:
* `{{H7665}}` (שָׁבַר, *shabar*): A very common verb meaning "to break," "shatter," or "crush," often used for breaking objects, bones, or even spirits.
* `{{H6561}}` (פָּרַץ, *parats*): "To break forth," "burst out," often implying a breaking through a barrier or boundary.
* `{{H5422}}` (נָתַץ, *nathats*): "To tear down," "break down," often used in the context of demolishing structures or idols.
* `{{H7533}}` (רָצַץ, *ratsats*): "To crush," "oppress," implying a forceful subjugation or breaking of resistance.
* In terms of the "earthquake" nuance, `{{H7493}}` (רָעַשׁ, *ra'ash*) means "to quake," "shake," or "tremble," often referring to the shaking of the earth.
* The concept of divine protection from harm is central to the verse. Related words include `{{H8104}}` (שָׁמַר, *shamar*), "to guard," "keep," or "preserve," and `{{H7272}}` (רֶגֶל, *regel*), "foot," which is the object of protection in [[Proverbs 3:26]].
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of H6480 (פָּצַם, *pâtsam*) in [[Proverbs 3:26]] imbues it with significant theological weight within the wisdom tradition. It serves as a powerful image of the sudden, destructive forces that can unexpectedly assail human life. By stating that the Lord "will keep your foot from being broken/shattered (mippatsem)," the verse underscores God's active and comprehensive providence over those who trust in Him.
This protection is not merely from minor mishaps but from severe, potentially incapacitating harm, depicted by the root's inherent violence (like an earthquake). It speaks to God's ability to safeguard His faithful from the most profound and unexpected dangers, ensuring their stability and progress in life. The theological implication is that true security and confidence are found not in human strength or foresight, but in a steadfast reliance upon the Lord. He is the ultimate guarantor against the "breaking" effects of a chaotic world, providing a foundation that prevents one from stumbling or being utterly destroyed by unforeseen calamities.
### Summary
The Hebrew root H6480 (פָּצַם, *pâtsam*) signifies "to rend" or "to break" with a force akin to an earthquake, implying sudden and powerful destruction. As a hapax legomenon, its sole biblical occurrence is in [[Proverbs 3:26]], where it describes the Lord's protective action: "He will keep your foot from being shattered (mippatsem)." This usage highlights divine safeguarding against unexpected, severe harm that could disable or destroy. Theologically, pâtsam in this context emphasizes God's comprehensive providence, assuring believers that their trust in Him leads to protection from even the most violent and unforeseen disruptions, enabling them to walk securely in His path.
TRV