### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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