from an unused root meaning to burst; only used as an architectural term of an ornament similar to פַּקֻּעָה,; a semi-globe; knop.
Transliteration:peqaʻ
Pronunciation:peh'-kah
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term פֶּקַע (peqaʻ), transliterated as *peqaʻ*, originates from an unused root signifying "to burst" or "to swell forth." This etymological root provides insight into the visual nature of the object it describes. As an architectural term, *peqaʻ* denotes a specific type of ornament, characterized as a "semi-globe" or "knop." Its definition explicitly links it to פַּקֻּעָה (paqquʻah, `{{H6495}}`), which refers to a wild gourd, further emphasizing its rounded, bulging, or protruding form. Thus, the core meaning of *peqaʻ* is a decorative boss or protuberance, resembling a half-sphere or a swelling fruit, used in sacred architecture. Its semantic range is highly specialized and limited exclusively to this architectural context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *peqaʻ* (`{{H6497}}`) appears exclusively in the descriptions of Solomon's Temple and its furnishings in the book of 1 Kings. Its occurrences are found in:
* [[1 Kings 6:18]]: "And the cedar of the house within was carved with knops (פֶּקַע) and open flowers: all was cedar; there was no stone seen." Here, *peqaʻ* is part of the intricate carvings on the cedar paneling of the Temple's interior, alongside "open flowers," indicating a rich, naturalistic decorative scheme.
* [[1 Kings 7:20]]: "And the knops (פֶּקַע) were upon the chapiter above also over against the belly which was by the network: and the knops were in two rows round about upon the one and upon the other chapiter." This verse describes the ornamentation on the capitals of the two great bronze pillars, Jachin and Boaz, which stood at the Temple's porch. The *peqaʻ* were arranged in two rows, forming a prominent decorative feature.
* [[1 Kings 7:24]]: "And under the brim of it round about there were knops (פֶּקַע) compassing it, ten in a cubit, compassing the sea round about: the knops were cast in two rows, when it was cast." This passage details the decoration of the "molten sea," a massive bronze basin. The *peqaʻ* here are described as cast elements, encircling the basin in two rows, again emphasizing their rounded, protruding nature and their role in adding visual richness to the sacred vessel.
In all contexts, *peqaʻ* functions as an element of highly detailed, aesthetically rich ornamentation. Its placement on the Temple's internal paneling, the capitals of its foundational pillars, and the great molten sea underscores its significance in contributing to the overall splendor and sanctity of the divine dwelling place. The meticulous description of these elements highlights the precision and artistry demanded for God's sanctuary.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word to *peqaʻ* (`{{H6497}}`) is פַּקֻּעָה (paqquʻah, `{{H6495}}`), which refers to a "wild gourd" or "wild cucumber." The base definition of *peqaʻ* explicitly notes its similarity to *paqquʻah*, indicating a shared root and a common conceptualization of a rounded, swelling, or bursting form. While *paqquʻah* describes a botanical item, *peqaʻ* applies this form to an architectural ornament.
Beyond this lexical connection, *peqaʻ* exists within a broader category of architectural terms describing the Temple's elaborate decorations. These include "cherubim" (כְּרוּבִים, `{{H3742}}`), "palm trees" (תִּמֹרִים, `{{H8558}}`), and "open flowers" (פְּתוּחִים, from פָּתַח, `{{H6605}}`). The inclusion of *peqaʻ* alongside these more overtly symbolic or naturalistic motifs suggests a coherent decorative program, likely intended to evoke a sense of Edenic beauty and divine order within the sacred space. The "knop" form itself, reminiscent of fruit or buds, subtly reinforces themes of fruitfulness, life, and creation's beauty.
### Theological Significance
While *peqaʻ* itself does not carry independent theological weight as a word, its significance is deeply embedded in its context: the construction and adornment of Solomon's Temple. The Temple was not merely a building but the earthly dwelling place for God's presence among His people. The meticulous detail, costly materials, and exquisite craftsmanship, including the incorporation of ornaments like *peqaʻ*, speak volumes about the reverence, awe, and dedication due to the Almighty.
The elaborate ornamentation of the Temple, far from being mere aesthetics, served several theological purposes:
1. **Glorification of God:** The beauty and splendor of the Temple reflected the glory and majesty of the God it housed. Every detail, no matter how small, contributed to an edifice worthy of the divine.
2. **Divine Order and Perfection:** The precise instructions for the Temple's construction, even down to the placement of *peqaʻ*, underscore the divine blueprint and the importance of order, precision, and excellence in worship and service to God.
3. **Symbolism of Creation:** The use of natural motifs like "knops" (resembling gourds or fruits) and "open flowers" alongside cherubim and palm trees, subtly transformed the Temple into a microcosm of creation, particularly recalling the Garden of Eden. This suggested that God's presence brings forth life, beauty, and fruitfulness.
4. **Human Dedication and Skill:** The craftsmanship involved in creating and placing these ornaments demonstrated the human capacity for skill and artistry, consecrated and offered as an act of worship to God.
Thus, the *peqaʻ*, though a humble architectural detail, contributed to the overall theological message of the Temple: a sacred space of unparalleled beauty and order, reflecting God's glory and the devotion of His people.
### Summary
פֶּקַע (peqaʻ, `{{H6497}}`) is a specialized Hebrew term denoting an architectural ornament, specifically a "knop" or "semi-globe," derived from an unused root meaning "to burst" or "to swell forth." Its form is conceptually linked to the wild gourd (פַּקֻּעָה, `{{H6495}}`), emphasizing its rounded, protruding shape. This term is found exclusively in the books of 1 Kings, where it describes decorative elements on the cedar paneling, the capitals of the pillars Jachin and Boaz, and the great molten sea within Solomon's Temple. As an integral part of the Temple's elaborate ornamentation, *peqaʻ* contributes to the overall aesthetic and symbolic richness of the sacred edifice. Its presence underscores the meticulous care, divine instructions, and profound reverence that characterized the construction of God's dwelling place, reflecting the glory of God and the dedication of His people.
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