### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The word **pithgâm**, represented by `{{H6599}}`, is a term of Persian origin for a **decree** or **sentence**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying a formal, authoritative, and often judicial declaration that carries significant weight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H6599}}` is used in both royal and judicial contexts. In the book of Esther, it refers to the **king's** `{{H4428}}` **decree** which is to be `published` `{{H8085}}` so that all wives would give their husbands `honour` `{{H3366}}` [[Esther 1:20]]. Conversely, in Ecclesiastes, the word is used as the **sentence** against an `evil` `{{H7451}}` `work` `{{H4639}}`. The verse observes that because this **sentence** is not executed quickly, people are more inclined to continue doing `evil` `{{H7451}}` [[Ecclesiastes 8:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of a **pithgâm**:
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This term identifies the source of authority behind a **decree**. A `king` is the one who issues the `pithgâm`, giving it legal and social force within his empire [[Esther 1:20]].
* `{{H6213}}` **ʻâsâh** (to do or make): This word describes the action of creating or carrying out a **decree** or **sentence**. The power of a `pithgâm` is tied to its being `made` by a king or `executed` as a judgment ([[Esther 1:20]], [[Ecclesiastes 8:11]]).
* `{{H7451}}` **raʻ** (bad or evil): This term provides the reason for a judicial **sentence**. The `pithgâm` in Ecclesiastes is a direct response to an `evil` `work` `{{H4639}}`, highlighting its function in addressing wrongdoing [[Ecclesiastes 8:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6599}}` is connected to concepts of justice and authority.
* **Royal Authority:** The use in Esther establishes that a **decree** is an instrument of a `king's` `{{H4428}}` power, intended to shape societal behavior and enforce order [[Esther 1:20]].
* **Consequence of Justice:** [[Ecclesiastes 8:11]] illustrates a critical principle that a **sentence** only has moral authority when it is executed. The delay of judgment against an `evil` `{{H7451}}` `work` `{{H4639}}` leads to further wickedness, emphasizing the severe consequences of inaction.
* **The Published Word:** A **decree** is intended to be `published` `{{H8085}}` and heard, linking the formal declaration to its intended public impact and the expectation of obedience [[Esther 1:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6599}}` is not simply a command, but a formal declaration with legal and moral force. It represents either a royal **decree** intended to establish order or a judicial **sentence** intended to punish evil. Its limited use in Scripture emphasizes a profound point: the authority of a declared word is intrinsically tied to its swift and certain execution for it to be effective.
TRV