The Aramaic word pᵉraq, represented by H6562, means to discontinue or break off. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, highlighting a specific and decisive action of cessation. The term corresponds to the Hebrew word פָּרַק.
The single use of H6562 occurs in the counsel Daniel gives to the king. He advises the king to break off his sins with an act of righteousness and his iniquities by showing mercy. This context frames the word not as a passive stopping, but as an intentional, active separation from wrongdoing, presented as a potential path to "a lengthening of thy tranquillity" Daniel 4:27.
The singular use of H6562 is directly linked to several key terms that define its context in Daniel 4:27:
- H2408 chăṭîy (an offence; sin): This is the object of the action; the king is instructed to break off his sins.
- H5758 ʻivyâʼ (perverseness; iniquity): Paired with sin, this is the other negative behavior to be discontinued, with the text specifying to break off "thine iniquities."
- H6665 tsidqâh (beneficence; righteousness): This is presented as the means to break off sin. The command is to discontinue sin by righteousness.
- H2604 chănan (shew mercy, make supplication): This is the prescribed action for breaking off iniquity. The term is also used when Daniel is found making supplication to his God Daniel 6:11.
The theological weight of H6562 is concentrated in its sole appearance, offering a clear model for repentance.
- Active Repentance: The term implies not just a passive feeling of regret but an active and forceful "breaking off" from a sinful course of action Daniel 4:27.
- Righteousness as a Remedy: Scripture presents a direct antidote to sin. Sin H2408 is not merely to be abandoned, but replaced and broken by acts of righteousness H6665.
- Mercy as Counter to Iniquity: The verse specifically pairs breaking off iniquity H5758 with the tangible action of showing mercy H2604 to the poor, connecting spiritual change to social justice.
In summary, H6562 pᵉraq provides a powerful and concise illustration of true repentance. Though used only once, its context in Daniel 4:27 establishes a profound theological principle: that a genuine turn from sin and iniquity involves a decisive break, achieved through the deliberate and opposite actions of righteousness and mercy.
TRV