The Hebrew word peraʻ, represented by H6545, refers to the hair (as dishevelled); locks. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The term specifically denotes locks of hair that are allowed to grow freely, often as a visible sign of a particular vow or status.
In the biblical narrative, H6545 is used in two distinct and contrasting contexts related to religious observance. For the Nazirite under a vow of separation, the instruction is to "let the locks of the hair of his head grow" Numbers 6:5 as a sign of being holy to the LORD. Conversely, the priests in Ezekiel's vision are given the opposite command: "nor suffer their locks to grow long; they shall only poll their heads" Ezekiel 44:20. This highlights how the state of one's hair could serve as a powerful symbol of one's specific role and covenant relationship with God.
Several related words help define the context of hair and religious observance:
- H8181 sêʻâr (hair): This is the general term for hair (as if tossed or bristling). The "locks" of H6545 are a form of H8181, as seen in the command for a Nazirite to let the locks of the hair of his head grow Numbers 6:5.
- H7218 rôʼsh (head): Defined as the head... whether literal or figurative, this is the location of the hair and locks. Both primary occurrences specify that the locks are on the head (Numbers 6:5, Ezekiel 44:20).
- H7971 shâlach (to send away... grow long): This verb is used in Ezekiel 44:20 to forbid priests from letting their locks grow long. It signifies the act of letting go or releasing, which in this context applies to hair length.
The theological weight of H6545 is centered on the outward expression of one's spiritual state and service.
- Symbol of Consecration: The primary use of locks is to signify a special separation unto God. In the Nazirite vow, letting the hair grow long was a visible marker of the period of consecration, during which a razor was forbidden to touch the head Numbers 6:5.
- Mark of Regulated Service: For priests, the command was one of moderation. They were neither to shave their heads nor let their locks grow long, but to keep their hair polled Ezekiel 44:20. This represents a different kind of holiness—one of order and discipline appropriate for sanctuary service.
- Outward Representation of Status: The state of the locks communicated an individual's specific religious obligations. Whether long for the Nazirite or polled for the priest, the hair served as a public declaration of one's relationship and duties before the LORD.
In summary, H6545 is a specific term for locks of hair that, while appearing only twice, carries significant weight. It demonstrates how physical appearance was used in the Old Testament as a powerful symbol. The word contrasts the wild separation of the Nazirite vow with the ordered, regulated service of the priesthood, illustrating that different forms of devotion were marked by distinct external signs.
TRV