### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Perets**, represented by `{{H6557}}`, is derived from a word meaning a breach or breaking forth. It is the name of two Israelites, also transliterated as **Perez** or **Pharez**. It appears **15 times** across **13 unique verses**, primarily in genealogical contexts that establish it as a foundational name in the lineage of Judah.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The narrative origin of the name is explicitly detailed at his birth. When his twin brother's hand appeared first but then withdrew, Perets came out unexpectedly, prompting the exclamation, "How hast thou broken forth? this breach be upon thee: therefore his name was called Pharez" [[Genesis 38:29]]. This event links his identity directly to the act of "breaking forth." Subsequently, `{{H6557}}` is consistently listed as a son of Judah ([[Genesis 46:12]], [[1 Chronicles 2:4]]). The house of Pharez became so significant that it was used as a benchmark for blessing [[Ruth 4:12]], and his descendants were prominent among those who dwelt in Jerusalem [[Nehemiah 11:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the meaning behind the name Perets:
* `{{H6555}}` **pârats**: This is the root verb meaning **to break out**. It is the very word used to describe the action that gave Perets his name [[Genesis 38:29]]. It can also signify an increase or spread, such as when a substance has "increased in the land" [[Job 1:10]].
* `{{H6556}}` **perets**: This noun means **a break** or **breach**. It is used in the naming of Perets to describe the "breach" itself [[Genesis 38:29]]. Figuratively, it can refer to a gap in a wall or a nation's defenses that needs a repairer ([[Isaiah 58:12]], [[Ezekiel 22:30]]).
* `{{H1121}}` **bên**: This word for **a son** is essential to understanding the role of Perets. He is listed as one of the "sons of Judah" [[Genesis 46:12]], and his descendants are called the "children of Pharez" [[1 Chronicles 9:4]], establishing his place in the patriarchal lineage.
### Theological Significance
The narrative and genealogical weight of `{{H6557}}` is significant for tracking the lineage of Judah.
* **A Name Born from Action:** The name is not arbitrary but is a direct result of the dramatic "breaking forth" at his birth, forever tying his identity to this concept [[Genesis 38:29]].
* **Foundation of a Major Clan:** As a son of Judah, Perets became the ancestor of the Pharzites, one of the key families of the tribe [[Numbers 26:20]]. His sons, Hezron and Hamul, are consistently named as his heirs ([[Genesis 46:12]], [[1 Chronicles 2:5]]).
* **A Standard for Blessing:** The lineage of Perets was held in such high regard that the people blessed Boaz, hoping his house would be "like the house of Pharez, whom Tamar bare unto Judah" [[Ruth 4:12]].
* **Enduring Lineage:** The "sons of Perez" are recorded as valiant men who dwelt in Jerusalem after the exile [[Nehemiah 11:6]], and a descendant of Perez was a chief of the captains of the host [[1 Chronicles 27:3]], demonstrating the family's lasting importance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6557}}` Perets is far more than a simple personal name. It is a name embedded with the concept of "breaking forth," marking a pivotal moment in the history of Judah's line. Through his descendants, the name Perets signifies the establishment and endurance of one of the most significant families in the biblical record, a lineage whose prominence is noted from the book of Genesis through the post-exilic period.
TRV