### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **piqqâdôwn**, represented by `{{H6487}}`, refers to **a deposit; that which was delivered (to keep), store**. It appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, making it a specific term used in distinct contexts. It is derived from the verb `{{H6485}}` **pâqad**, which means to visit, oversee, or deposit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6487}}` carries two primary meanings. In Leviticus, it refers to a personal deposit, an item entrusted to a neighbor for safekeeping. To lie about such a deposit is considered a **trespass** against the LORD [[Leviticus 6:2]]. The law demands that if a person sins and is guilty, they must **restore** that which was delivered to them to keep [[Leviticus 6:4]]. In Genesis, the word takes on a larger scale, where Joseph advises Pharaoh to gather food as a **store** for the land of Egypt to prepare for the seven years of famine, ensuring the land does not perish [[Genesis 41:36]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the legal and ethical framework surrounding a deposit:
* `{{H6485}}` **pâqad**: As the root verb, it means to **visit, oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit**. This word establishes the act of entrusting something to another's care, as when the LORD visits Sarah as he had said [[Genesis 21:1]].
* `{{H4603}}` **mâʻal**: This verb means to **act covertly, i.e. treacherously; transgress, (commit, do a) trespass(-ing)**. It is used directly in the context of mishandling a deposit, defining the act as a trespass against God [[Leviticus 6:2]].
* `{{H1498}}` **gâzêl**: Meaning **robbery, or (concretely) plunder**, this word is contrasted with a deposit. Leviticus lists mishandling a deposit alongside taking a thing away by violence, highlighting different forms of violating trust and property rights [[Leviticus 6:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6487}}` centers on stewardship, trust, and divine provision.
* **A Trespass Against the LORD:** The misuse of a deposit is not merely a social misdeed but a sin against God Himself. Lying about "that which was delivered him to keep" constitutes a trespass against the LORD, linking personal integrity directly to one's relationship with God [[Leviticus 6:2]].
* **The Principle of Restoration:** The law mandates that a mishandled deposit must be restored once guilt is established. This underscores the biblical value of justice and making restitution for sin, ensuring the wronged party is made whole [[Leviticus 6:4]].
* **Stewardship for Survival:** In a national context, the term illustrates wise foresight. The food set aside as a "store" `{{H6487}}` for Egypt demonstrates a principle of responsible stewardship over resources to preserve life and prevent the land from perishing during famine [[Genesis 41:36]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6487}}` **piqqâdôwn** is a focused term that encompasses both personal and national forms of deposits. Whether describing an item left with a neighbor or food stored to save a nation, it underscores the biblical principles of trust, integrity, and responsible stewardship. Its use in Levitical law frames the handling of deposits as a matter of covenantal faithfulness to both man and God, while its use in Genesis illustrates the wisdom of setting aside provisions for the future.
TRV