### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pârâʼ**, represented by `{{H6500}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to bear fruit** or **be fruitful**. It is a very specific term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H6500}}` is used to describe a state of prosperity that is subject to judgment. In [[Hosea 13:15]], the text states, "Though he be **fruitful** among his brethren." This condition of fruitfulness, however, is immediately contrasted with a coming "east wind" from the LORD that will dry up springs and spoil treasures, signifying a complete and devastating reversal of fortune.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Hosea 13:15]] help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch** (brother): This primitive word defines a brother, often in a wide sense of relationship or metaphorical affinity. The subject of [[Hosea 13:15]] is described as fruitful specifically "among his **brethren**," establishing a communal context for his prosperity and subsequent fall.
* `{{H2717}}` **chârab** (to parch): A root word meaning to desolate, destroy, or be dry. It stands in direct opposition to being fruitful, describing how the subject's fountain "shall be dried up" [[Hosea 13:15]]. The same word is used to describe how nations that do not serve God will be "utterly wasted" [[Isaiah 60:12]].
* `{{H8154}}` **shâçâh** (to plunder): This word means to plunder or spoil. It describes the ultimate outcome of the judgment in [[Hosea 13:15]], where "he shall **spoil** the treasure." It is elsewhere used to describe the spoilers to whom the LORD delivers His people for judgment [[Judges 2:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6500}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
* **Conditional Prosperity:** The use of `{{H6500}}` in [[Hosea 13:15]] illustrates that fruitfulness or prosperity can be temporary and is subject to God's authority. The blessing of being fruitful is immediately followed by the certainty of judgment.
* **The Agency of Divine Judgment:** The reversal of fruitfulness is directly attributed to "the wind of the LORD" [[Hosea 13:15]]. This demonstrates that God is the agent who can both grant prosperity and bring about desolation.
* **A State Before a Fall:** In its only scriptural context, being fruitful is not presented as a final, secure state, but as a prelude to destruction. The verse implies that this very condition precedes a complete spoiling of all pleasant vessels.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6500}}` is a highly specific term for being fruitful. Its singular use in scripture is not to celebrate prosperity, but to serve as a powerful warning. It frames fruitfulness as a transient condition that, in the context of [[Hosea 13:15]], exists only as the precursor to a swift and complete judgment brought about by the LORD.
TRV