from פָּרַד; a mule (perhaps from his lonely habits); mule.
Transliteration:pered
Pronunciation:peh'-red
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun H6505 (pered) refers to a "mule." Its etymology is deeply rooted in the verb H6504 (parad), meaning "to divide," "to separate," or "to scatter." This connection is highly suggestive of the mule's hybrid nature, being the offspring of a male donkey (`{{H2543}}`) and a female horse (`{{H5483}}`). The base definition's suggestion of "perhaps from his lonely habits" might allude to the mule's sterility, which separates it from the reproductive cycle of other animals, or perhaps its independent and strong-willed disposition often observed. Semantically, pered consistently denotes this specific animal, known for its strength, endurance, and sure-footedness, making it a valuable beast of burden and transport in the ancient Near East.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H6505 appears several times in the Hebrew Bible, consistently referring to the animal "mule." Its usage highlights the mule's practical importance in various contexts:
* **Royal and Elite Transport:** Mules were often associated with royalty and high-ranking individuals due to their reliability and strength. David's sons, including Absalom, rode mules ([[2 Samuel 13:29]], [[2 Samuel 18:9]]). Most notably, King David decreed that Solomon, his chosen successor, should ride upon *his own* mule during his anointing, symbolizing the transfer of royal authority and legitimacy ([[1 Kings 1:33]], [[1 Kings 1:38]], [[1 Kings 1:44]]). This act underscored the mule's status as a fitting mount for a king.
* **Beasts of Burden:** Mules were prized for their ability to carry heavy loads over difficult terrain. They are listed among the animals used by those returning from Babylonian exile, emphasizing their utility in the arduous journey and the rebuilding effort ([[Ezra 2:66]], [[Nehemiah 7:68]]). This practical application demonstrates their economic and logistical value.
* **General Use:** Beyond royal contexts, mules were part of the general livestock, indicating wealth and providing essential transport for both goods and people ([[2 Samuel 18:9]], [[Isaiah 66:20]], [[Zechariah 14:15]]). The mention of "mules and camels" bringing gifts to Solomon from various kings further illustrates their role in inter-state relations and commerce ([[1 Kings 10:25]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to H6505 is its root verb, H6504 (parad), meaning "to divide," "to separate," or "to scatter." This etymological link underscores the mule's nature as a distinct, "separated" or "divided" entity, being a hybrid. Other related animal terms in the biblical lexicon include:
* H2543 (chamor): Donkey, the male parent of a mule. Donkeys were common beasts of burden and riding animals for ordinary people.
* H5483 (sus): Horse, the female parent of a mule. Horses were often associated with warfare, speed, and royal power.
* H1581 (gamal): Camel, another significant beast of burden, especially suited for desert travel.
The concept of hybridity, though not explicitly commented upon in the Bible regarding mules, exists in the broader Mosaic law concerning the mixing of different kinds ([[Leviticus 19:19]]). However, mules were clearly accepted and utilized in Israelite society, suggesting a pragmatic acceptance of their existence for their practical benefits, despite their origins. Mules embody strength, endurance, reliability, and utility in the biblical world.
### Theological Significance
While H6505 (pered) primarily denotes a practical animal, its consistent appearance in contexts of authority and utility lends it a subtle theological resonance. The mule's association with King David and, crucially, Solomon's anointing ([[1 Kings 1:33]], [[1 Kings 1:38]], [[1 Kings 1:44]]) elevates its status beyond a mere beast of burden. In this specific instance, riding the king's personal mule signifies a divinely sanctioned transfer of power and legitimacy, demonstrating that even seemingly mundane elements can play a role in God's providential ordering of events. The mule's strength and reliability can be seen as a metaphor for the steadfastness required of leadership. Furthermore, its presence among the animals used by the returning exiles ([[Ezra 2:66]], [[Nehemiah 7:68]]) highlights God's provision for His people in their journey of restoration. The mule, a creature of mixed origin, is nevertheless fully integrated into the life and economy of Israel, serving as a testament to the practical wisdom and resourcefulness within the divine order, even if its creation arises from human intervention in natural breeding.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H6505 (pered) precisely denotes a "mule," a hybrid animal derived from the verb H6504 (parad), "to separate." This etymological link subtly points to its distinct, hybrid nature. In biblical narratives, the mule is consistently portrayed as a valuable and reliable animal, prized for its strength, endurance, and sure-footedness. It served as a crucial beast of burden for transport and labor, and notably, as a significant mount for royalty and high-ranking officials, symbolizing authority and legitimacy, particularly in the succession of Solomon. While not a direct subject of theological discourse, the mule's role in key biblical events underscores themes of practical provision, royal succession, and the effective use of resources within the divinely ordered world.
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