### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **perach**, represented by `{{H6525}}`, is defined as a bloom, blossom, bud, or flower. Derived from the verb meaning "to bloom" or "flourish" `{{H6524}}`, it appears **17 times** across **15 unique verses**. The term is used to describe both the natural flowering of plants and the artificial floral ornamentation found on sacred objects.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6525}}` is prominently featured in the detailed instructions for the tabernacle and temple furnishings. It is a recurring decorative element on the golden candlestick, or **mᵉnôwrâh** `{{H4501}}`, where its **flowers** are part of an intricate design that includes bowls `{{H1375}}`, knops `{{H3730}}`, and branches `{{H7070}}` ([[Exodus 25:31]], [[Exodus 37:17]]). The design for the candlestick, including its **flowers**, was made according to the pattern the LORD `{{H3068}}` showed to Moses `{{H4872}}` [[Numbers 8:4]]. This floral motif also appears on the brim of a cup `{{H3563}}`, which was decorated with **flowers** of lilies `{{H7799}}` [[1 Kings 7:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the botanical and architectural contexts of **perach**:
* `{{H6524}}` **pârach** (to flourish): This is the primitive root from which **perach** is derived. It is used to describe the miraculous budding of Aaron's rod, which "was budded" `{{H6524}}` and brought forth buds `{{H6525}}` [[Numbers 17:8]].
* `{{H6731}}` **tsîyts** (blossom, flower): This word is used alongside **perach** in the account of Aaron's rod, which "bloomed blossoms" `{{H6731}}`, indicating a close and sometimes interchangeable meaning [[Numbers 17:8]].
* `{{H3730}}` **kaphtôr** (knop): This architectural term for a wreath-like button or disk appears in direct conjunction with **perach** in the design of the candlestick, forming a key part of the repeated floral pattern [[Exodus 25:33]].
* `{{H4501}}` **mᵉnôwrâh** (candlestick): This sacred object is the primary item described as being adorned with **flowers** `{{H6525}}`. The instructions for making the candlestick repeatedly mention its flowers as an integral part of its holy design ([[Exodus 25:34]], [[Exodus 37:20]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6525}}` is seen in its symbolic applications, representing themes of divine life, judgment, and frailty.
* **Divine Life and Priesthood:** In a powerful demonstration of God's choice, Aaron's rod brought forth **buds** `{{H6525}}`, bloomed blossoms, and yielded almonds, confirming the house of Levi `{{H3878}}` for the priesthood [[Numbers 17:8]]. This miraculous event uses the imagery of flowering to signify God-given life and authority.
* **Consequences of Disobedience:** Isaiah warns that for those who cast away the law `{{H8451}}` of the LORD `{{H3068}}`, their **blossom** `{{H6525}}` will go up like dust `{{H80}}` and their root `{{H8328}}` will become rottenness `{{H4716}}` [[Isaiah 5:24]]. Here, the blossom represents a seemingly prosperous life that is ultimately destroyed by sin.
* **Frailty of Creation:** The **flower** `{{H6525}}` is used to illustrate the fragility of even the most majestic and fruitful places. When God rebukes `{{H1605}}` the sea, the powerful regions of Bashan `{{H1316}}` and Carmel `{{H3760}}` languish, and "the **flower** of Lebanon `{{H3844}}` languisheth" `{{H535}}` [[Nahum 1:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6525}}` moves beyond a simple definition of a flower to carry significant weight in scripture. It is used to describe the God-ordained beauty of sacred worship objects, to serve as a sign of God's miraculous life-giving power, and to act as a potent metaphor for the fleeting nature of prosperity when it is not rooted in obedience to God's law. Its use illustrates how a natural object can convey profound theological truths about life, worship, and judgment.
TRV