פָּרוּחַ

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew word Pârûwach, represented by H6515, is a proper name meaning blossomed. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The name is used to identify a specific Israelite named Paruah.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole appearance of H6515 is within an administrative list from the time of Solomon's reign. It is used to identify the father of Jehoshaphat, who was an officer assigned to the territory of Issachar. The biblical text states, "Jehoshaphat the son of Paruah, in Issachar" 1 Kings 4:17. In this context, Pârûwach serves a purely patronymic function, establishing the lineage of a government official.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words from its only context help to establish its role in the narrative:

• H3092 Yᵉhôwshâphâṭ (Jehovah-judged; Jehoshaphat): The son of Paruah, this individual held an official position. The name is associated with figures who sought the Lord, as seen when the Lord was with King Jehoshaphat because he walked in the ways of David 2 Chronicles 17:3.
• H1121 bên (a son): This term is fundamental to establishing family lines and inheritance. Its importance is highlighted in the command to teach God's ways to "thy sons, and thy sons' sons" Deuteronomy 4:9.
• H3485 Yissâˢkâr (he will bring a reward; Issachar): This name refers to one of Jacob's sons and the resulting tribe of Israel. The men of Issachar were known for having "understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do" 1 Chronicles 12:32.

Theological Significance

While not carrying significant theological weight on its own, the appearance of H6515 contributes to the biblical narrative in specific ways:

• Administrative Detail: The name is part of a detailed record that demonstrates the organized structure of Solomon's kingdom, listing the officers responsible for providing provisions.
• Genealogical Identification: It serves the common biblical function of identifying a person by naming their father, which anchors individuals within a family history 1 Kings 4:17.
• Territorial Association: The mention of Pârûwach's family connects it directly to the tribal region of Issachar, grounding the administrative record in a specific geographical and tribal context.

Summary

In summary, H6515 is a name whose significance is tied entirely to its single appearance in scripture. As Pârûwach, or Paruah, it serves the simple but important function of identifying a person within a genealogical and administrative list. It provides a specific detail that contributes to the historical record of Solomon's reign, anchoring the official, Jehoshaphat, to his father and his assigned territory in Issachar 1 Kings 4:17.