a primitive root; to separate, literally (to disperse) or figuratively (to specify); also (by implication) to wound; scatter, declare, distinctly, shew, sting.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pârâsh**, represented by `{{H6567}}`, is a primitive root with a range of meanings including to separate, disperse, specify, wound, scatter, declare, distinctly, and shew. Though it appears only **5 times** across **5 unique verses**, its applications are varied, touching on themes of divine communication, danger, and dispersion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6567}}` appears in several distinct contexts. It is used to describe the painful effect of wine, which at the last "stingeth like an adder" [[Proverbs 23:32]]. In a different sense, it refers to making God's will known, as when the Levites read from the law "distinctly" to ensure the people understood [[Nehemiah 8:8]]. This meaning of clarification is also present in Leviticus and Numbers, where men are held in ward until the mind of the LORD can be "shewed" or "declared" ([[Leviticus 24:12]], [[Numbers 15:34]]). Finally, it illustrates the condition of God's people as sheep that are "scattered," whom the good shepherd promises to seek out [[Ezekiel 34:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H6567}}` in its specific contexts:
* `{{H6327}}` **pûwts** (disperse): This word directly parallels the idea of scattering. Ezekiel's prophecy about the shepherd seeking his sheep uses both `{{H6567}}` and `{{H6327}}` to describe the state of the flock that has been "scattered" [[Ezekiel 34:12]].
* `{{H5391}}` **nâshak** (bite): Used in parallel with `{{H6567}}` in Proverbs, this word emphasizes the wounding nature of an attack. The warning that wine "biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder" links these two actions closely [[Proverbs 23:32]].
* `{{H995}}` **bîyn** (understand): This term is the intended result of using `{{H6567}}` to mean "distinctly." The purpose of reading the law with clarity was so the leaders could cause the people "to understand the reading" [[Nehemiah 8:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6567}}` is evident in its varied applications.
* **Divine Clarity and Revelation:** The word highlights the necessity of God's will being communicated clearly. Whether reading the law "distinctly" or waiting for a judgment to be "declared" by the Lord, the term points to the importance of God's revealed instruction ([[Nehemiah 8:8]], [[Numbers 15:34]]).
* **The Painful Result of Sin:** The use of "stingeth" serves as a powerful metaphor for the consequences of transgression. It illustrates how sin, like the venom of an adder, inflicts a painful and dangerous wound [[Proverbs 23:32]].
* **Scattering and Restoration:** The image of "scattered" sheep in Ezekiel depicts the state of God's people when they are without a proper shepherd. This use of the word sets the context for God’s promise to personally intervene, seek out his people, and restore them [[Ezekiel 34:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6567}}` is a multifaceted word that encompasses the ideas of separation, wounding, and clarification. From the sharp "sting" of an adder to the "distinctly" read law of God and the "scattered" sheep of a flock, **pârâsh** captures different facets of divine-human interaction. It demonstrates how a single term can convey the clear revelation of God's will, the painful consequences of straying from it, and the promise of His ultimate restoration.
TRV