### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **peshaʻ**, represented by `{{H6588}}`, is a key term for **transgression** or **rebellion**. It appears **93 times** across **90 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the root `{{H6586}}` **pâshaʻ**, its base definition is "a revolt (national, moral or religious); rebellion, sin, transgression, trespass," emphasizing an active and willful act of breaking away from authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H6588}}` is used to describe a conscious act of rebellion against God and his law. It is often something that needs to be declared and confronted, as when God commands his prophet to "shew my people their **transgression**" [[Isaiah 58:1]]. The term is also central to God's character, who is described as "forgiving iniquity and **transgression** and sin" [[Exodus 34:7]]. The consequences of unaddressed **transgression** are severe, leading to judgment against nations [[Amos 2:4]]. The ultimate price for such rebellion is seen in the suffering of the Messiah, who "was wounded for our **transgressions**" [[Isaiah 53:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of rebellion and sin:
* `{{H6586}}` **pâshaʻ** (to break away (from just authority), i.e. trespass, apostatize, quarrel): This is the root verb for **peshaʻ**, describing the very act of rebellion. [[Ezekiel 18:31]] commands people to cast away their transgressions whereby they "have transgressed" `{{H6586}}`.
* `{{H5771}}` **ʻâvôn** (perversity, i.e. (moral) evil; fault, iniquity): Often paired with **peshaʻ**, this word highlights the moral evil and perversity of sin. In [[Isaiah 53:5]], the Messiah is wounded for our **transgressions** `{{H6588}}` and bruised for our **iniquities** `{{H5771}}`.
* `{{H2403}}` **chaṭṭâʼâh** (an offence... and its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, or expiation): This term for sin is frequently listed with **peshaʻ** and **ʻâvôn**. It can refer to the offense itself or the sacrifice required for it, as seen in [[Exodus 34:7]] where God forgives "iniquity `{{H5771}}` and transgression `{{H6588}}` and sin `{{H2403}}`".
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6588}}` is significant, defining both the problem of sin and its solution.
* **Sin as Willful Rebellion:** Unlike other words for sin that can mean "to miss the mark," **peshaʻ** denotes a conscious and willful revolt against God's authority. This is why it is something to be declared to the people [[Isaiah 58:1]] and is linked to despising God's law [[Amos 2:4]]. It represents a deliberate choice to break away.
* **The Necessity of Atonement:** The gravity of **peshaʻ** requires a divine response. God's mercy is showcased in His willingness to pardon transgression [[Micah 7:18]]. This pardon is costly, as prophetically shown in the Messiah, who was "wounded for our transgressions" [[Isaiah 53:5]] and who would come "to finish the transgression" [[Daniel 9:24]].
* **The Mandate for Confession and Repentance:** Scripture outlines a clear response to **peshaʻ**. Covering transgressions leads to failure, but one "whoso confesseth `{{H3034}}` and forsaketh `{{H5800}}` them shall have mercy" [[Proverbs 28:13]]. This turning back to God is met with His action of blotting out `{{H4229}}` and removing transgressions ([[Isaiah 43:25]], [[Psalms 103:12]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6588}}` **peshaʻ** is not merely a synonym for sin but a specific term for willful rebellion against a rightful authority. It describes a conscious choice to break covenant and defy God's law, which brings about divine judgment [[Isaiah 24:20]]. Yet, scripture also shows that this grave offense can be forgiven [[Psalms 32:1]], pardoned [[Micah 7:18]], and ultimately atoned for through a divine act of mercy [[Isaiah 53:5]]. The word **peshaʻ**, therefore, stands as a cornerstone in understanding the severity of sin and the depth of God's grace.
TRV