### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Pᵉthôwr**, represented by `{{H6604}}`, is a place name of foreign origin. It refers to **Pethor**, a location in Mesopotamia. This term is highly specific, appearing just **2 times** in **2 unique verses** within the scriptures, consistently identifying the hometown of a key biblical figure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6604}}` is exclusively used to establish the origin of Balaam, son of Beor. When messengers are sent to hire the prophet to curse the Israelites, they are sent to him at "**Pethor**, which is by the river of the land of the children of his people" [[Numbers 22:5]]. This location is further clarified in Deuteronomy, where the failure to aid Israel is compounded by the fact that they "hired against thee Balaam the son of Beor of **Pethor** of Mesopotamia, to curse thee" [[Deuteronomy 23:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide the geographical and familial context for Pethor:
* `{{H1109}}` **Bilʻâm** (Balaam): The central figure associated with Pethor. He is identified as a Mesopotamian prophet from Pethor who was hired to curse Israel [[Deuteronomy 23:4]].
* `{{H1160}}` **Bᵉʻôwr** (Beor): The father of Balaam. His name is used to form the patronymic "son of Beor," which appears in both verses that mention Pethor ([[Numbers 22:5]], [[Deuteronomy 23:4]]).
* `{{H763}}` **ʼĂram Nahărayim** (Mesopotamia): The region where Pethor is located. The name means "Aram of (the) two rivers" and explicitly places Pethor within a foreign territory [[Deuteronomy 23:4]].
* `{{H5104}}` **nâhâr** (river): This word, meaning a stream or **river**, is used to provide a specific geographical marker for Pethor's location [[Numbers 22:5]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H6604}}` is tied directly to its role in the story of Balaam.
* **Source of a Foreign Threat:** Pethor is presented as the point of origin for a spiritual threat against Israel. It is the place from which Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, was summoned for the express purpose of cursing God's people [[Deuteronomy 23:4]].
* **Identifier of an Outsider:** The name firmly establishes Balaam's identity as a foreigner from Mesopotamia. This geographical context highlights that the opposition to Israel came from an external power.
* **Setting for Divine Sovereignty:** Pethor is the starting point for a narrative that ultimately demonstrates God's power. Although the plot to curse Israel originates with a summons to Pethor, God intervenes to turn the intended curse into a blessing [[Deuteronomy 23:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6604}}` is more than a simple pin on a map. As **Pethor**, it functions as a crucial narrative anchor, identifying the home of Balaam and the foreign source of a significant challenge to Israel. Its two appearances in scripture are sufficient to cement its role as the backdrop for a story that emphasizes God's sovereignty over the plans and curses of men.
TRV