(Aramaic) corresponding to פָּרַק; to discontinue; break off.
Transliteration:pᵉraq
Pronunciation:per-ak'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic verb `{{H6562}}` (pᵉraq) primarily conveys the sense of "to break off," "to discontinue," or "to deliver/rescue." It is explicitly noted as corresponding to the Hebrew `{{H6544}}` (pāraq), which shares a similar semantic field of breaking, tearing, or delivering. The core idea inherent in `{{H6562}}` is a severance or separation, which can manifest in various ways: a literal breaking of a physical object, the discontinuation of an action, or a figurative "breaking free" from a bond or a difficult situation, leading to deliverance or the unraveling of a mystery.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The Aramaic `{{H6562}}` occurs exclusively in the Aramaic sections of the book of Daniel, specifically within chapter 5, which recounts the dramatic feast of Belshazzar and the writing on the wall. Its usage reveals two distinct yet related semantic applications:
* **Physical Disintegration/Weakening:** In [[Daniel 5:6]], the verb describes the king's physical reaction to the mysterious writing: "Then the king's face turned pale and his thoughts so alarmed him that his legs gave way and his knees knocked together." Here, pᵉraq is used to describe Belshazzar's joints "giving way" or "breaking apart" due to intense fear and terror. This vividly portrays a physical collapse, a loss of cohesion and strength, brought on by divine judgment.
* **Figurative Unraveling/Solving:** In [[Daniel 5:16]] and [[Daniel 5:17]], pᵉraq is employed in the context of interpreting the enigmatic writing. The king challenges Daniel, saying, "Now if you can read the writing and make known to me its interpretation..." (verse 16) and Daniel responds, "...I will read the writing to the king and make known to him the interpretation" (verse 17). In these instances, pᵉraq is translated as "solve" or "interpret." This is a figurative extension of the core meaning, implying the "breaking open" or "unraveling" of a complex problem or a hidden message, making it understandable. It signifies the ability to dismantle a mystery and reveal its meaning.
Thus, within a single chapter, `{{H6562}}` demonstrates its capacity to describe both a physical breaking apart and an intellectual breaking open of understanding.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is its Hebrew counterpart, `{{H6544}}` (pāraq). This Hebrew verb shares a strong semantic overlap, encompassing meanings such as "to tear," "to break off," "to deliver," or "to rescue." Examples of `{{H6544}}` include tearing clothes in grief ([[Genesis 37:29]]), breaking bonds or yokes ([[Jeremiah 2:20]]), or delivering from danger ([[Psalm 7:2]]). The Aramaic `{{H6562}}` therefore carries this dual sense of physical disintegration and spiritual/intellectual unraveling or deliverance.
Concepts related to `{{H6562}}` also include:
* **Deliverance/Rescue:** The act of "breaking off" can imply liberation from a difficult situation or bondage, whether physical or mental.
* **Interpretation/Revelation:** The usage in Daniel 5 for "solving" or "interpreting" connects pᵉraq to the broader biblical theme of divine revelation, the unveiling of hidden truths, and the understanding of mysteries, often mediated through God's chosen prophets.
### Theological Significance
The theological implications of `{{H6562}}` in Daniel 5 are profound. Its use in [[Daniel 5:6]] vividly portrays the terrifying and immediate impact of divine judgment. Belshazzar's physical body literally "breaks down" under the weight of God's impending wrath, illustrating the overwhelming power of the Almighty and the utter fragility of human defiance and pride. It serves as a stark reminder that God's confrontation can manifest in immediate and devastating ways, dismantling human strength and composure.
Furthermore, in its application to "solving" or "interpreting" the writing ([[Daniel 5:16]], [[Daniel 5:17]]), pᵉraq highlights God's unique sovereignty over knowledge and His exclusive ability to reveal hidden truths and make sense of seemingly inscrutable messages. Daniel, empowered by God, is able to "break open" the divine decree, demonstrating that true wisdom and understanding come directly from God, not from human intellect, sorcery, or worldly wisdom. This emphasizes that God alone holds the key to the mysteries of life and destiny, and He chooses to communicate these truths through His faithful servants.
The dual meaning of pᵉraq in Daniel 5—physical breakdown and intellectual breakthrough—serves as a powerful metaphor for the disruptive yet revelatory nature of God's interaction with the world. God "breaks" human presumption and pride while simultaneously "breaking open" the path to understanding His will and judgment.
### Summary
The Aramaic verb `{{H6562}}` (pᵉraq) means "to break off" or "to discontinue," closely corresponding to the Hebrew `{{H6544}}`. Its limited but impactful occurrences in Daniel 5 reveal two primary applications: a literal physical "breaking down" or "giving way" in the face of overwhelming fear and divine judgment, as seen in Belshazzar's terror ([[Daniel 5:6]]); and a figurative "breaking open" or "solving" of a mystery, particularly in the context of interpreting divine revelation ([[Daniel 5:16]], [[Daniel 5:17]]). Theologically, pᵉraq powerfully underscores God's ability to dismantle human pride and physical strength through judgment, while simultaneously demonstrating His exclusive power to reveal and make known profound truths, accessible only through His divine enablement. It encapsulates both the destructive power of divine judgment and the illuminating power of divine revelation.
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