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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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