### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Pᵉrâth**, represented by `{{H6578}}`, refers to the Euphrates, a great river of the East. Its name is derived from a root meaning "to break forth," suggesting a rushing quality. It appears **19 times** in **19 unique verses**, establishing its significance as a major geographical, political, and symbolic landmark in the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6578}}` is used in several key contexts. It is first mentioned as the fourth river flowing from Eden [[Genesis 2:14]]. It repeatedly serves as the divinely appointed boundary of the land promised to Israel, described as "the great river, the river Euphrates" ([[Genesis 15:18]], [[Deuteronomy 1:7]], [[Joshua 1:4]]). The river is also a strategic location for major historical conflicts between empires such as **Egypt** `{{H4714}}`, **Assyria** `{{H804}}`, and **Babylon** `{{H894}}` ([[2 Kings 23:29]], [[Jeremiah 46:2]]). In the book of Jeremiah, it becomes the site for prophetic acts, such as when the prophet hides a girdle by the **Euphrates** to symbolize the spoiling of pride [[Jeremiah 13:4-7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for the Euphrates river:
* `{{H5104}}` **nâhâr** (river): Defined as a stream, flood, or river, this is the general term often used in conjunction with **Pᵉrâth**, as in "the river **Euphrates**" [[Genesis 15:18]]. It is used to describe both literal streams and figurative prosperity.
* `{{H3751}}` **Karkᵉmîysh** (Carchemish): This is a place in Syria located by the **Euphrates**. It was the site of a pivotal battle where the army of Egypt was defeated by the king of Babylon ([[Jeremiah 46:2]], [[2 Chronicles 35:20]]).
* `{{H894}}` **Bâbel** (Babylon): The Babylonian empire is intrinsically linked to the **Euphrates**. The king of **Babylon** extended his territory to the river [[2 Kings 24:7]], and the sinking of a book into the **Euphrates** was a prophetic sign against **Babylon** [[Jeremiah 51:63]].
* `{{H804}}` **ʼAshshûwr** (Assyria): A major empire whose history is tied to the **Euphrates**. The king of **Assyria** is mentioned traveling to the river [[2 Kings 23:29]], and the river is noted in proximity to **Assyria** in the description of Eden's rivers [[Genesis 2:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6578}}` is significant, representing boundaries, judgment, and promise.
* **Covenantal Boundary:** The **Euphrates** is consistently established as the northeastern border of the land God promised to Abraham and his descendants, a physical marker of God's covenantal faithfulness ([[Genesis 15:18]], [[Deuteronomy 11:24]]).
* **Arena of World Powers:** The river serves as a stage where God's sovereign hand moves among nations. Major battles by the **Euphrates** are depicted as divinely ordained events, such as the "day of the Lord GOD of hosts" which brings vengeance by the river in the north country [[Jeremiah 46:10]].
* **Symbol of Prophetic Judgment:** The **Euphrates** is used in prophetic symbolism to illustrate coming judgment and ruin. Jeremiah's act of burying a girdle until it was ruined by the **Euphrates** [[Jeremiah 13:7]] and casting a stone-bound book into its waters [[Jeremiah 51:63]] serve as powerful, tangible prophecies.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6578}}` is far more than a simple geographical feature. It is a cornerstone of biblical geography, defining the extent of the Promised Land. It serves as a critical backdrop for the rise and fall of ancient empires under God's sovereignty. Furthermore, its use in prophetic actions transforms it into a potent symbol of divine judgment and the fulfillment of God's word.
TRV