The Hebrew word pêrâh, represented by H6512, refers to a hole, specifically one that is dug or broken open. It appears only 1 time in the entire Bible. Its primary significance comes from its combination with another word to form the term for mole, as its base definition notes to "compare חֲפֹר."
The single appearance of H6512 is in Isaiah 2:20. In this verse, the word is used alongside H2661 to describe the creatures to whom a man will throw away his idols. The passage states that on a future day, a man will "cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold... to the moles and to the bats" Isaiah 2:20. Here, H6512 is not used alone but forms a compound term illustrating where worthless idols will be discarded.
Several related words from its only context in Isaiah 2:20 illuminate its meaning:
- H2661 chăphôr (a hole; mole): This word is explicitly linked to H6512. The definition for H2661 states it is found "only in connection with פֵּרָה, which ought rather to be joined as one word," forming the term for a burrower, or mole.
- H457 ʼĕlîyl (idol, no value, thing of nought): This is the word for the "idols" being cast to the moles and bats. Its definition as "good for nothing" and "vanity" reinforces the theme of the verse. It is used elsewhere to describe "dumb idols" Habakkuk 2:18 and false prophecy as "a thing of nought" Jeremiah 14:14.
- H5847 ʻăṭallêph (a bat): This is the other creature mentioned in Isaiah 2:20 as a recipient of the discarded idols. The bat is also mentioned in Leviticus 11:19 and Deuteronomy 14:18.
The theological weight of H6512 is tied entirely to its singular, symbolic use in prophecy.
- The Worthlessness of Idols: The act of casting idols made of precious silver and gold to burrowing animals signifies their ultimate futility. The idols, which men "made each one for himself to worship" Isaiah 2:20, are relegated to dark holes in the earth, highlighting their lack of true value compared to the Lord.
- A Symbol of Judgment: Throwing these objects to moles and bats symbolizes a complete and contemptuous rejection. The idols are being returned to the dark and hidden places of the earth, a fitting end for man-made objects of false worship.
- Reversal of Worship: The items created for the purpose of worship, or to "bow down" H7812, are instead thrown away in disgust. This represents a day of reckoning when the folly of idolatry is fully exposed and abandoned.
In summary, H6512 pêrâh is a term whose significance is unlocked only when paired with H2661 chăphôr. While literally meaning a "hole," its sole biblical use contributes to the powerful prophetic imagery in Isaiah. It helps create the term "moles," vividly painting a picture of judgment where the most revered man-made objects are ultimately cast aside into darkness as worthless.
TRV