The Hebrew word pithchôwn, represented by H6610, refers to an opening, specifically the act of opening. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from the root for "to open," this term is used to describe the opening of the mouth, signifying either the ability to speak or a state of being able to speak.
In its biblical usage, H6610 is presented in two contrasting scenarios, both within the book of Ezekiel. In one context, the inability to open the mouth is a direct result of overwhelming shame and confusion. After God recounts Israel's unfaithfulness and then offers His pardon, the proper response is a humbled silence, being so confounded that one can never open their mouth again Ezekiel 16:63. Conversely, the term is used to signify divine empowerment, where God promises to give the prophet the "opening of the mouth" to speak boldly, an act that will cause the people to know the LORD Ezekiel 29:21.
Several related words help clarify the meaning of H6610 in its specific contexts:
- H6310 peh (mouth): This word is directly paired with H6610 in both of its occurrences. The "opening" is explicitly of the mouth, connecting the term to the act of speech, proclamation, or the silence that comes from shame (Ezekiel 16:63, Ezekiel 29:21).
- H954 bûwsh (ashamed): This defines the state that leads to a closed mouth. Israel is to be so confounded by their past sins in light of God's forgiveness that they are left speechless Ezekiel 16:63.
- H5414 nâthan (to give): This verb highlights that the ability to speak is a divine gift. While shame may silence a person, God is the one who can give the "opening of the mouth," thereby authorizing and empowering His servant to speak Ezekiel 29:21.
- H3045 yâdaʻ (to know): The purpose of God giving the "opening of the mouth" is so that the people will know that He is the LORD. The empowered speech serves as a sign of God's active presence and power Ezekiel 29:21.
The theological weight of H6610 is centered on God's sovereignty over human speech and expression.
- Silence Born of Grace: The term illustrates a profound spiritual state where, in the face of God's pacifying grace, the memory of one's sin leads to a reverent and humbled silence. It is not an opening for excuses but a closing of the mouth in recognition of unmerited forgiveness Ezekiel 16:63.
- Divine Authorization to Speak: In contrast, H6610 signifies God-given authority and enablement. The "opening of the mouth" is not a human act but a divine impartation, equipping a prophet to speak God's truth with confidence when Israel's hope begins to bud forth again Ezekiel 29:21.
- A Sign of God's Action: The ability to speak, or the lack thereof, serves as a sign of God's work. It can mark the depth of human shame or it can function as a public demonstration of God's power, intended to lead people to the knowledge of Him.
In summary, H6610 is a specific term that carries significant theological weight despite its rare usage. It encapsulates a powerful duality: the silencing of the mouth out of profound shame and humility before God, and the divine empowering of the mouth to speak authoritatively for Him. Ultimately, the "opening" of the mouth is shown to be an act under God's sovereign control, used either to mark human contrition or to declare divine revelation.
TRV