### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word pârâshâh (`{{H6575}}`) is derived from the root verb pârash (פָּרָשׁ), which carries the core meaning of "to separate," "to spread out," "to make distinct," "to declare," or "to explain plainly." Consequently, pârâshâh itself denotes an "exposition," a "declaration," or a "detailed explanation." It implies making something clear, explicit, and distinct, often in the sense of a precise statement or a defined portion. The nuance of "sum" within its definition suggests a declared or specified total, rather than a vague amount.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word pârâshâh (`{{H6575}}`) is notably rare in the Hebrew Bible, appearing only once in the Masoretic Text. Its sole occurrence is found in the book of Esther:
* [[Esther 4:7]]: "And Mordecai told him of all that had happened unto him, and of the **sum** of the money that Haman had promised to pay to the king's treasuries for the Jews, to destroy them."
In this context, pârâshâh refers to the "exact amount" or "declared sum" of money Haman had specifically promised to deposit into the royal treasury as payment for the decree to annihilate the Jewish people. The usage here emphasizes the precise and explicit nature of Haman's offer, highlighting that it was not a general or unspecified amount, but a clearly stated and agreed-upon figure. This precision underscores the deliberate and calculated wickedness of Haman's plan.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to pârâshâh (`{{H6575}}`) is its verbal root, pârash (פָּרָשׁ), Strong's `{{H6567}}`. This verb is used in various contexts to mean:
* "To declare plainly" or "to make distinct" (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 27:8]], where the words of the law are to be "plainly inscribed").
* "To spread out" (e.g., hands in prayer, [[Exodus 9:29]]).
* "To specify" or "to distinguish."
Other related concepts include words signifying "explanation" (e.g., bi'ur, `{{H877}}`), "declaration" (often from nagad, `{{H5046}}`), and "summation" (e.g., sakh, `{{H5520}}`). The common thread among these terms and pârâshâh is the act of making information clear, explicit, and unambiguous, contrasting with obscurity or vagueness.
### Theological Significance
While pârâshâh (`{{H6575}}`) itself is limited to a single historical occurrence, its underlying root pârash (`{{H6567}}`) carries significant theological weight. The concept of "declaration" or "making plain" is fundamental to divine revelation. God "declares" His will, His commandments, and His covenant promises to humanity with clarity and precision. The explicit nature of Haman's promised "sum" in [[Esther 4:7]] serves to highlight the meticulous detail of human wickedness, which is fully known and recorded in the divine economy. This exactitude points to the precision of God's justice and His unwavering knowledge of all deeds, both good and evil. Theologically, the emphasis on "exposition" or "declaration" resonates with the biblical emphasis on the clarity of God's Word, which is intended to be understood and obeyed, not shrouded in mystery.
### Summary
The Hebrew word pârâshâh (`{{H6575}}`), derived from the root pârash (`{{H6567}}`), signifies an "exposition," "declaration," or a "specific sum." Its singular appearance in [[Esther 4:7]] refers to the precise, declared amount of money Haman offered for the destruction of the Jews, underscoring the deliberate and exact nature of his malicious plan. Though infrequent, the word's meaning aligns with broader biblical themes of clarity, precise communication, and the divine attribute of knowing all things with meticulous detail. It reminds us of the importance of clear revelation and the exact accounting of human actions before God.
TRV