### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pârâh**, represented by `{{H6510}}`, is the feminine term for a bovine, meaning **cow, heifer, kine**. It is the female counterpart to `{{H6499}}` **par**, or bullock. This word appears **26 times** across **22 unique verses**, playing a role in significant narratives, laws, and prophecies.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H6510}}` is used in several key contexts. It is central to Pharaoh's dream in Genesis, where seven well-favored **kine** [[Genesis 41:2]] are consumed by seven ill-favored **kine** [[Genesis 41:4]], symbolizing seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine [[Genesis 41:27]]. The word is also critical in the law of purification, where a red **heifer** `{{H6510}}` without blemish and which has never been yoked is sacrificed to create the water of separation ([[Numbers 19:2]], [[Numbers 19:9]]). Additionally, two milch **kine** `{{H6510}}`, on which no yoke had come, are used to carry the Ark of the Lord back to Israel [[1 Samuel 6:7]], and are later offered as a burnt offering [[1 Samuel 6:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of livestock and ceremonial laws:
* `{{H6499}}` **par** (bullock): The male counterpart to **pârâh**, often mentioned alongside it, as when Jacob prepares a gift of forty **kine** and ten bulls [[Genesis 32:15]].
* `{{H1241}}` **bâqâr** (beef cattle or an animal of the ox family): A broader term for cattle. In a vision of future peace, the **cow** `{{H6510}}` is mentioned alongside the **ox** `{{H1241}}`, showing a return to harmony [[Isaiah 11:7]].
* `{{H5923}}` **ʻôl** (yoke): The status of a **heifer** or **kine** as being untouched by a yoke was a key requirement for its use in sacred duties, signifying it was set apart for a holy purpose ([[Numbers 19:2]], [[1 Samuel 6:7]]).
* `{{H5763}}` **ʻûwl** (milch): This term describes the nursing **kine** used to transport the Ark, whose calves were shut up at home, emphasizing the miraculous nature of their journey ([[1 Samuel 6:7]], [[1 Samuel 6:10]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological and metaphorical weight of `{{H6510}}` is significant.
* **Ceremonial Purification:** The red **heifer** provides the means for cleansing from impurity, forming a central part of the "ordinance of the law" for the children of Israel [[Numbers 19:2]]. The burning of the entire animal, including its skin, flesh, and blood, was required for this purification for sin [[Numbers 19:5]].
* **Prophetic Symbolism:** The **kine** in Pharaoh's dream serve as a direct communication from God regarding future events, illustrating His sovereignty over history and provision for His people [[Genesis 41:26]].
* **A Metaphor for Israel:** Prophets use the image of a **heifer** to describe Israel's spiritual state. Hosea refers to Israel as a "backsliding **heifer**" to illustrate its stubborn rebellion [[Hosea 4:16]], while Amos calls the oppressive elite women of Samaria the "**kine** of Bashan" [[Amos 4:1]].
* **Vision of Peace:** In Isaiah's prophecy of a peaceful kingdom, the **cow** is shown feeding with the bear, symbolizing a time when nature itself will be restored to a state of harmony [[Isaiah 11:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6510}}` **pârâh** extends beyond a simple agricultural term. It is integral to Old Testament law, a vessel for divine prophecy, and a potent symbol for the spiritual condition of God's people. From the sacrificial red heifer for purification to the stubborn heifer representing a wayward nation, the word illustrates how an everyday creature can carry profound spiritual meaning.
TRV