### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **perek**, represented by `{{H6531}}`, denotes **severity**, **cruelty**, or **rigour**. Derived from a root meaning "to break apart," its core idea is that of fracture or harshness. It appears only **6 times** in **6 unique verses**, but each usage powerfully describes a state of oppressive and cruel authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6531}}` is used in two primary contexts. First, it defines the extreme hardship of the Israelite bondage in Egypt. The Egyptians are said to have made the children of Israel **serve** with **rigour** [[Exodus 1:13]], a condition that made their lives **bitter** with hard bondage [[Exodus 1:14]]. Second, it is used in the Law as a direct prohibition against oppressive rule. The Lord commands that one should not **rule** over a fellow Israelite or even a hired servant with **rigour** ([[Leviticus 25:43]], [[Leviticus 25:46]], [[Leviticus 25:53]]). This prohibition is later echoed in the prophets, where the failed shepherds of Israel are condemned because they **ruled** the flock with **force** and with **cruelty** [[Ezekiel 34:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of cruelty and harsh authority:
* `{{H7287}}` **râdâh** (to... rule): This verb is frequently qualified by **perek**, specifying the *manner* of dominion. The law forbids Israelites to **rule** `{{H7287}}` over each other with **rigour** `{{H6531}}` [[Leviticus 25:43]].
* `{{H5647}}` **ʻâbad** (to work... serve... enslave): This describes the action being forced upon those under harsh rule. In Egypt, the Israelites were made to **serve** `{{H5647}}` with **rigour** `{{H6531}}` [[Exodus 1:13]].
* `{{H2394}}` **chozqâh** (force, mightily... sharply): Used in parallel with **perek** in Ezekiel's condemnation of Israel's leaders, this term emphasizes the violent and forceful nature of their cruel reign [[Ezekiel 34:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6531}}` is significant, as it establishes a clear biblical standard against inhumane treatment.
* **A Prohibition on Oppression:** The term is central to the laws governing relationships within Israel. To **rule** with **rigour** is explicitly forbidden, and the command is directly connected to a proper relationship with God, as one is told to instead **fear** `{{H3372}}` thy **God** `{{H430}}` [[Leviticus 25:43]].
* **The Mark of Unjust Leadership:** Its use in Ezekiel provides a benchmark for judging authority. The shepherds of Israel failed because they ruled with **cruelty** `{{H6531}}` rather than strengthening and healing the flock [[Ezekiel 34:4]].
* **Defining Egyptian Bondage:** The use of **perek** to describe the slavery in Egypt [[Exodus 1:13-14]] frames God's subsequent act of deliverance as a rescue from a specific and intolerable form of cruelty.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6531}}` is a precise and potent term for cruel severity. Though used sparingly, it powerfully defines the nature of oppression, both in the context of Israel's bondage in Egypt and as a prohibited action for leaders who are meant to govern justly. It serves as a stark reminder that the exercise of authority is judged by God, and that rule characterized by **rigour** stands in direct opposition to the reverence He commands.
TRV