### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pᵉthîy**, represented by `{{H6612}}`, describes one who is **silly (i.e. seducible), foolish, or simple**. It appears **19 times** across **18 unique verses**, primarily in wisdom literature. The term characterizes a person who is naive and easily influenced, a state that can either lead to wisdom through instruction or to ruin through gullibility.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6612}}` is presented at a crossroads. On one hand, the simple are vulnerable and face negative consequences. They "pass on, and are punished" for failing to foresee evil ([[Proverbs 22:3]], [[Proverbs 27:12]]). Their "turning away... shall slay them" [[Proverbs 1:32]], and they are said to inherit folly [[Proverbs 14:18]]. On the other hand, this state is not hopeless. The testimony of the LORD is sure, "making wise the **simple**" [[Psalms 19:7]], and the entrance of God's words gives them understanding [[Psalms 119:130]]. The LORD is even described as one who "preserveth the **simple**" [[Psalms 116:6]]. Scripture calls out to the simple, urging them to forsake their ways, understand wisdom, and live ([[Proverbs 9:6]], [[Proverbs 8:5]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the character and fate of the simple one:
* `{{H6175}}` **ʻârûwm** (prudent): This is the direct opposite of the simple. A **prudent** man foresees evil and hides, but the simple pass on to be punished [[Proverbs 22:3]]. The **prudent** are crowned with knowledge, while the simple inherit folly [[Proverbs 14:18]].
* `{{H2449}}` **châkam** (to be wise): This verb describes the positive potential for the simple. When a scorner is punished, the simple "is made **wise**" [[Proverbs 21:11]]. God's testimony itself is capable of "making **wise** the simple" [[Psalms 19:7]].
* `{{H3684}}` **kᵉçîyl** (fool): The simple are often grouped with **fools**. While the simple ones love simplicity, **fools** hate knowledge [[Proverbs 1:22]]. The prosperity of **fools** leads to their destruction, just as the turning away of the simple leads to theirs [[Proverbs 1:32]].
* `{{H6064}}` **ʻânash** (to punish): This is the consequence for the simple person who does not seek wisdom. After passing on into danger, they "are **punished**" ([[Proverbs 22:3]], [[Proverbs 27:12]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6612}}` is significant in understanding the biblical call to wisdom.
* **Vulnerability and Choice:** The simple person represents a state of open-mindedness that is dangerously neutral. They can believe every word [[Proverbs 14:15]] and are therefore at risk. Their condition highlights the critical choice between heeding God's instruction and following any persuasive voice.
* **Divine Instruction as the Remedy:** The cure for dangerous simplicity is divine revelation. The "law of the LORD" [[Psalms 19:7]] and the "entrance of thy words" [[Psalms 119:130]] are the specific agents that transform the simple into the wise. The purpose of wisdom is to give subtilty to the **simple** [[Proverbs 1:4]].
* **Consequences and Accountability:** While simplicity might imply a lack of malicious intent, it does not remove accountability. The simple who pass on are still punished [[Proverbs 22:3]]. However, the law provides a way to "reconcile the house" for the one who errs because they are **simple** [[Ezekiel 45:20]], indicating a measure of grace.
* **Wisdom through Observation:** The simple can also be made wise by observing the consequences others face. When a scorner is smitten or punished, the simple is said to "beware" or be made wise ([[Proverbs 19:25]], [[Proverbs 21:11]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6612}}` **pᵉthîy** is more than just a label for foolishness; it defines a crucial human condition of being open and seducible. The term serves as a consistent warning throughout Scripture that naivete is not a safe state. It highlights the urgent need for divine guidance, as God's testimony is the only sure path that can convert a simple one from a path of punishment and folly to one of wisdom, preservation, and life.
TRV