from an unused root meaning to dissever; dispersive; Pitstsets, a priest; Apses (including the article).
Transliteration:Pitstsêts
Pronunciation:pits-tsates'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6483}}` (פִּצֵּץ, *Pitstsêts*) is primarily a proper noun, designating a specific individual. Its base definition indicates derivation "from an unused root meaning to dissever," which suggests a conceptual link to notions of breaking apart, scattering, or being dispersive. While the underlying root implies a potential semantic range related to division or dispersion, this meaning is not directly attested in any active verbal or adjectival form within the biblical text. Instead, its sole biblical usage is as an anthroponym, "Pitstsets," identifying a priest. Therefore, its practical semantic range is limited to its function as a personal name, though the etymological hint may suggest a symbolic or historical context for the naming, now largely lost to us.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H6483}}` occurs only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the book of Nehemiah.
* [[Nehemiah 10:22]]: "The heads of the priests: Adnah, Binnui, Pitstsets," (ESV).
In this context, Pitstsets is listed among the priests who, along with Nehemiah, the Levites, and the rest of the people, sealed a solemn covenant to walk in God's Law, to observe His commandments, and to avoid intermarriage with foreign peoples. This act of covenant renewal was a crucial moment in the post-exilic community's re-establishment of their identity and commitment to Yahweh. Pitstsets's inclusion in this list signifies his position as a prominent member of the priestly class and his personal participation in this pivotal spiritual and national commitment. His name appears without further elaboration, indicating that his identity as a priest and signatory was sufficient for the record.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that `{{H6483}}` is a proper noun derived from an "unused root," direct linguistic cognates in active verbal or nominal forms are not present. However, the suggested root meaning "to dissever" or "dispersive" bears conceptual resemblance to other Hebrew roots related to breaking or scattering, such as `{{H6567}}` (פָּצַץ, *patsats*), meaning "to break, shatter." While not directly stated as a cognate, the semantic proximity suggests a shared conceptual field.
In terms of biblical concepts, Pitstsets is intrinsically linked to:
* **Priesthood:** As a priest, he belongs to the Aaronic lineage, responsible for mediating between God and Israel, offering sacrifices, and teaching the Law.
* **Covenant:** His participation in sealing the covenant in Nehemiah 10 connects him directly to the themes of national commitment, obedience to God's Law, and spiritual renewal.
* **Genealogy and Lists:** His name appears in a genealogical-style list, typical of biblical records that establish lineage and legitimate authority within the community, especially for priests and Levites.
* **Post-exilic Restoration:** Pitstsets is a figure in the crucial period of rebuilding Jerusalem and re-establishing the religious and social order after the Babylonian exile.
### Theological Significance
As a proper name, the direct theological significance of `{{H6483}}` lies primarily in the individual it represents and his role within the broader narrative of God's people. Pitstsets's inclusion in the list of those who sealed the covenant in Nehemiah 10 underscores the collective and individual commitment required for the spiritual restoration of Israel. His presence signifies that the priestly leadership, a vital component of the nation's spiritual well-being, was fully engaged in the solemn act of reaffirming their allegiance to God and His commandments. This act was not merely a political or social agreement but a deeply theological commitment to live in accordance with God's revealed will. While the etymological root of "dissevering" might, in a highly speculative sense, hint at a breaking away from past idolatry or a dispersion of God's truth, the text itself offers no such interpretive clues. Instead, Pitstsets stands as a testament to the faithfulness of individuals who contributed to the preservation and renewal of God's covenant community in a crucial period of its history. His name, though obscure in its etymological depth, is enshrined in the sacred text as part of the faithful remnant.
### Summary
`{{H6483}}` (פִּצֵּץ, *Pitstsêts*) is a Hebrew proper noun, identifying a priest who lived during the post-exilic period. Though its etymological root suggests a meaning related to "dissevering" or "dispersing," this meaning is not actively used in the biblical text beyond informing the name. The sole occurrence of Pitstsets is found in [[Nehemiah 10:22]], where he is listed among the priestly leaders who formally sealed the covenant to obey God's Law and uphold the commandments. His inclusion in this significant historical and spiritual event highlights the participation of the priestly class in the restoration of Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh. Pitstsets, therefore, represents an individual within the faithful community who actively contributed to the spiritual re-establishment of the nation after the return from exile, symbolizing the collective commitment to God's ways.
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