from פָּרָשׁ; (compare סוּס); a steed (as stretched out to a vehicle, not single nor for mounting ); also (by implication) a driver (in a chariot), i.e. (collectively) cavalry; horseman.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pârâsh**, represented by `{{H6571}}`, refers to a **horseman** or, collectively, cavalry. It appears **57 times** across **54 unique verses**. Derived from a root suggesting a steed stretched out to a vehicle, it implies a driver in a chariot or a member of a mounted military force, rather than an individual on a lone horse. This term consistently signifies an element of organized military power.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical accounts, `{{H6571}}` is primarily used to describe the military might of nations. It is a key component of Pharaoh's army that pursued the Israelites, whose **horsemen** were ultimately overcome in the Red Sea [[Exodus 14:28]]. The term also denotes a nation's wealth and status, as when Solomon gathered thousands of **horsemen** as a display of his kingdom's power [[1 Kings 10:26]]. Prophets often cite the strength of a nation's **horsemen** as a source of false confidence, warning Israel not to trust in them but in the Lord [[Isaiah 31:1]]. In a powerful metaphor, the cry "the chariot of Israel, and the **horsemen** thereof" is used to describe the immense spiritual power of the prophets Elijah and Elisha [[2 Kings 2:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the military and equestrian context of **pârâsh**:
* `{{H2428}}` **chayil** (an army, wealth, strength): This word often describes the overall force or army of which the **horsemen** are a part. It is used for a "band of soldiers" that would accompany **horsemen** [[Ezra 8:22]].
* `{{H5483}}` **çûwç** (a horse): As the mount for the **horseman**, this word is frequently paired with `{{H6571}}` to describe a complete cavalry unit, as seen in prophetic descriptions of armies with "horses and horsemen" [[Ezekiel 38:4]].
* `{{H7393}}` **rekeb** (a chariot, cavalry): This is the most common term found alongside **pârâsh**, indicating that these **horsemen** were typically part of chariot divisions that formed the elite offensive units of ancient armies [[Exodus 14:9]].
* `{{H7273}}` **raglîy** (a footman): This term for an infantry soldier serves as the counterpart to the mounted warrior, and the two are often listed together to quantify the full military strength of a kingdom [[2 Kings 13:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6571}}` is demonstrated through its consistent use as a symbol of human power in contrast to divine salvation.
* **Symbol of Worldly Power:** A king's strength and ambition were often measured by his force of **horsemen**. Adonijah gathered them in his attempt to seize the throne [[1 Kings 1:5]], and foreign armies were frequently described by the might of their cavalry [[Ezekiel 26:7]].
* **A Source of False Trust:** Scripture repeatedly warns against placing reliance on military might. The Lord promises to save His people, but "not by bow, nor by sword, nor by battle, by horses, nor by **horsemen**" [[Hosea 1:7]], directing faith away from human strength and toward God.
* **Instrument of Judgment and Power:** While often representing enemy forces, **horsemen** are also depicted as instruments of God's will. The charging **horsemen** of Babylon are described as enacting God's judgment [[Habakkuk 1:8]], and the term is used metaphorically to represent the spiritual force of God's prophets [[2 Kings 13:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6571}}` **pârâsh** is more than a simple descriptor for a man on a horse. It is a potent symbol of military power, national pride, and the temptation to trust in human strength. From the defeated armies of Pharaoh to the amassed forces of Solomon, the **horseman** serves as a recurring biblical illustration of earthly power, which is ultimately shown to be subordinate to the saving power of God.
TRV