### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun פֶּרַע (peraʻ), Strong's number `{{H6545}}`, is derived from the verb פָּרַע (paraʻ, `{{H6544}}`), which means "to let loose," "uncover," or "dishevel." Consequently, פֶּרַע (peraʻ) refers specifically to hair that is "let loose," "unshorn," or "dishevelled." Its semantic range primarily encompasses the state of hair that is allowed to grow freely, is unbound, or appears unkempt. Depending on the context, this physical state can symbolize dedication and holiness (as in the Nazarite vow) or, conversely, a lack of discipline, mourning, or even profanity (as implied by priestly regulations). The core idea is that of an unrestrained or uncovered state of the hair.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term פֶּרַע (peraʻ) appears in two distinct biblical contexts, each revealing a nuanced aspect of its meaning:
1. **The Nazarite Vow ([[Numbers 6:5]]):** "All the days of his vow of separation, no razor shall touch his head. Until the days are completed for which he separates himself to the LORD, he shall be holy, and he shall let the locks of his hair grow long." Here, פֶּרַע (peraʻ) refers to the unshorn, freely growing hair of a Nazarite. In this context, the "letting loose" of the hair is not a sign of disarray or defilement, but rather a deliberate act of consecration and devotion to Yahweh. The long hair serves as a visible sign of the Nazarite's separation and holiness, embodying the total dedication of their life to God for a specific period. It signifies a unique covenant relationship, where the natural state of the hair, untouched by human artifice, symbolizes a life set apart by divine command.
2. **Priestly Regulations ([[Ezekiel 44:20]]):** "They shall not shave their heads or let their hair grow long; they shall surely trim the hair of their heads." The phrase "וּפֶרַע לֹא יְשַׁלֵּחוּ" (uferaʻ lo' yeshallechu) literally means "and they shall not let loose their פֶּרַע (peraʻ)." This command to the priests serving in the future temple explicitly prohibits them from allowing their hair to become long and dishevelled. This stands in stark contrast to the Nazarite. For the priests, who are to minister in the holy presence of God, an orderly and disciplined appearance is mandated. The prohibition against wild or unkempt hair (פֶּרַע) likely serves several purposes: to distinguish them from pagan priests who might have dishevelled hair as part of ecstatic rituals, to prevent them from appearing as mourners (as dishevelled hair was a sign of mourning, cf. [[Leviticus 10:6]]), and to emphasize the sanctity, order, and reverence required in divine service.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for פֶּרַע (peraʻ) is its root verb, פָּרַע (paraʻ, `{{H6544}}`), which extends the semantic field to include concepts of "unrestraint," "exposure," "abandonment," and "disorder." For instance, in [[Exodus 32:25]], the people are described as "out of control" or "unrestrained" (פָּרֻעַ, paruaʻ) before Aaron during the golden calf incident, highlighting the negative connotations of the root when applied to behavior.
Other related concepts include:
* **Consecration (נֵזֶר, nezer, `{{H5353}}`):** Particularly relevant to the Nazarite vow, where the long hair is a "crown of separation" or "consecration."
* **Hair (שֵׂעָר, seʻar, `{{H8177}}`):** The general term for hair, from which פֶּרַע (peraʻ) specifies a particular state.
* **Mourning Rites:** Dishevelled hair was often associated with mourning or lamentation in ancient Near Eastern cultures, providing a backdrop for the priestly prohibition in Ezekiel.
* **Purity and Holiness:** The contexts of both Nazarites and priests underscore the importance of physical appearance as a reflection of spiritual state or ritual purity.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of פֶּרַע (peraʻ) lies in its dual symbolism, reflecting different aspects of humanity's relationship with God:
1. **Symbol of Consecrated Devotion:** In the Nazarite vow, פֶּרַע (peraʻ) is a potent symbol of complete and unreserved dedication to Yahweh. The deliberate act of allowing the hair to grow untouched signifies a life set apart, a physical manifestation of a spiritual covenant. It speaks to God's call for individuals to consecrate themselves fully, making a tangible sacrifice of personal appearance for divine service. This highlights the principle that true holiness involves not only inward purity but also outward expressions of commitment.
2. **Symbol of Order and Reverence in Divine Service:** The prohibition for priests in Ezekiel against letting their פֶּרַע (peraʻ) grow long underscores the necessity of order, discipline, and reverence in the worship of God. It teaches that those who minister in the holy presence of God must present themselves with dignity and sobriety, avoiding any appearance of wildness, mourning, or ritual impurity. This emphasizes the sanctity of God's presence and the high standards of conduct and appearance required of those who serve Him, distinguishing the true worship of Yahweh from chaotic or irreverent practices. The contrast between the Nazarite and the priest reveals that the *meaning* of a physical symbol is determined by the *context* of one's calling and the nature of their service to God.
### Summary
The Hebrew word פֶּרַע (peraʻ, `{{H6545}}`) refers to hair that is "let loose" or "unshorn," derived from the root verb meaning "to let loose" or "dishevel." Its meaning is highly contextual, serving as a powerful symbol in two key biblical passages:
1. In the Nazarite vow ([[Numbers 6:5]]), פֶּרַע (peraʻ) represents the long, uncut hair of consecration, signifying a positive, holy dedication and separation to the Lord.
2. In the priestly regulations of Ezekiel ([[Ezekiel 44:20]]), the command *not* to let the פֶּרַע (peraʻ) grow long emphasizes the need for order, discipline, and reverence in the appearance of those ministering before God, contrasting with unkempt hair that could symbolize mourning, defilement, or pagan practices.
Thus, פֶּרַע (peraʻ) encapsulates the tension between unrestrained natural growth and divinely mandated order, serving as a physical sign that communicates profound spiritual states of devotion or disciplined service within the covenant.
TRV