### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pethach**, represented by `{{H6607}}`, refers to an **opening**, **door**, or **entrance way**. It appears 163 times across 154 unique verses, highlighting its common use for both literal and symbolic entry points. Based on the root word for "to open," `{{H6607}}` signifies not just a physical passage but also a place of transition, access, and decision.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H6607}}` is used to describe various kinds of openings. It can be the **door** of a tent, as when Abraham sat in his tent **door** in the heat of the day [[Genesis 18:1]]. It is frequently the **door** of the Tabernacle of the congregation, the sacred point of entry for offerings and worship [[Leviticus 1:3]]. The term is also used metaphorically. In Genesis, sin is described as lying at the **door**, a warning of imminent temptation [[Genesis 4:7]]. In a prophetic context, God promises to transform the valley of Achor into a **door** of hope for Israel [[Hosea 2:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a more detailed picture of entrances and their components:
* `{{H1817}}` **deleth**: This refers to the swinging part or "valve of a door" [[Psalm 141:3]]. Wisdom is described as watching daily at the gates and waiting at the posts of the **doors** [[Proverbs 8:34]], where `{{H1817}}` and `{{H6607}}` are used together.
* `{{H8179}}` **shaʻar**: This term also means **door** or **gate**, often referring to the larger gates of a city [[Genesis 22:17]]. In Psalms, the call is made to lift up the **gates** `{{H8179}}` and the everlasting **doors** `{{H6607}}` for the King of glory to enter [[Psalms 24:7]].
* `{{H4201}}` **mᵉzûwzâh**: This is a **door-post**, a structural element of the entrance. During the Passover, the Lord promised to pass over the **door** `{{H6607}}` when he saw the blood on the two side **posts** `{{H4201}}` [[Exodus 12:23]].
* `{{H4670}}` **miphtân**: This word denotes a **threshold** or sill. In Ezekiel's vision, water flowed from under the **threshold** `{{H4670}}` of the house at its **door** `{{H6607}}` [[Ezekiel 47:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6607}}` is most evident in its role as a place of critical encounters with God and moral choices.
* **Point of Divine Access:** The **door** of the Tabernacle was the divinely appointed location for interacting with God through sacrifice. Any offering not brought to this **door** was considered a grave offense [[Leviticus 17:4]]. Priests were commanded to remain at this **door** to fulfill their duties [[Leviticus 8:35]].
* **Threshold of Consequence:** The **door** represents a boundary where a decision leads to deliverance or judgment. Sin crouches at the **door**, awaiting a choice [[Genesis 4:7]]. The blood-marked **door** in Egypt became the dividing line between life and death [[Exodus 12:23]].
* **Metaphor for Character and Destiny:** A person's relationship with their own "gate" or entrance reflects their inner state. He that "exalteth his **gate**" is said to seek destruction [[Proverbs 17:19]], linking arrogance to ruin. Conversely, the prophet Micah warns to "keep the **doors** of thy mouth," using the image to counsel discretion [[Micah 7:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6607}}` **pethach** is a term rich with meaning. While it literally denotes an opening or entrance, it consistently functions as a site of profound spiritual activity. From the tent **door** where Abraham met heavenly messengers to the Tabernacle **door** that governed access to God's presence, and from the figurative **door** where sin lies in wait to the promised **door** of hope, this word marks the critical thresholds of biblical faith, morality, and salvation.
TRV