### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pâraṭ**, represented by `{{H6527}}`, is a primitive root defined as to scatter words, prate, hum, or **chant**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text, which makes its specific context crucial to its meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single instance of `{{H6527}}` is found in a prophetic critique in [[Amos 6:5]]. The verse describes those at ease who "chant to the sound of the viol, and invent to themselves instruments of musick, like David." Here, the act of chanting is not presented as righteous worship but as part of an idle, self-indulgent lifestyle. It is an activity paired with the human invention of musical instruments for personal entertainment, rather than for the glory of God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context in [[Amos 6:5]] illuminate the meaning of **pâraṭ**:
* `{{H2803}}` **châshab** (invent): This word means to think, devise, or invent. While it can be neutral, as when God's thoughts are toward His people [[Jeremiah 29:11]], in Amos it describes the people contriving their own forms of entertainment. It highlights a self-directed creativity in contrast to divinely-inspired worship.
* `{{H5035}}` **nebel** (viol): This word refers to a stringed instrument, such as a psaltery or viol. It is frequently associated with sacred music and prophecy in contexts of worship ([[1 Chronicles 25:1]], [[Nehemiah 12:27]]), making its use in Amos a stark contrast, where it accompanies idle chanting.
* `{{H3627}}` **kᵉlîy** (instruments): A general term for any kind of prepared apparatus, vessel, or weapon. It is used for sacred items like "the vessels of the LORD" [[Isaiah 52:11]] as well as for common things. In [[Amos 6:5]], it refers to the musical implements the people create for themselves.
* `{{H7892}}` **shîyr** (musick): This is the common Hebrew word for **song**, often used in the context of praise to God, as seen in the titles of many psalms ([[Psalms 127:1]], [[Psalms 133:1]]). Its presence in [[Amos 6:5]] frames the chanting as a distorted form of musical expression.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6527}}` is derived entirely from its negative portrayal in Amos.
* **Profane Imitation:** The comparison "like David" in [[Amos 6:5]] is critical. David's music, often accompanied by instruments like the **nebel** [[Psalms 71:22]], was an act of worship. The chanting in Amos is a shallow imitation, using the forms of worship for self-gratification.
* **Symptom of Complacency:** The act of **pâraṭ** is a sign of spiritual decay. It is the sound made by those who are comfortable and at ease, oblivious to the coming judgment the prophet Amos proclaims. Their "chanting" represents a distraction from spiritual reality.
* **Human-Centered Worship:** The people "invent to themselves" instruments for their chanting. This points to a human-centered, rather than God-centered, activity. The focus is on their own creativity and pleasure, a theme underscored by the use of **châshab** (invent, devise).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6527}}` **pâraṭ** is a term defined by its singular, critical context. It does not describe sacred singing but rather an aimless, self-indulgent chanting characteristic of a people at ease and spiritually complacent. Its appearance in [[Amos 6:5]] serves as a powerful warning, illustrating how the practices of worship can be co-opted for profane entertainment, shifting the focus from God to the self.
TRV