from an unused root meaning to open (the eyes); (compare פִּתְאוֹם); a wink, i.e. moment(used only (with or without preposition) adverbially, quickly or unexpectedly; at an instant, suddenly, [idiom] very.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pethaʻ**, represented by `{{H6621}}`, signifies a moment or a wink, used adverbially to convey something happening quickly, unexpectedly, or at an instant. Derived from a root meaning to open the eyes, it denotes an event that occurs in a flash. It appears 7 times across 7 unique verses, often highlighting the abruptness of a situation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical contexts, `{{H6621}}` consistently describes events that are both swift and unforeseen. It is frequently associated with sudden destruction as a consequence of sin. For instance, a person who hardens his neck against reproof will **suddenly** be destroyed without remedy [[Proverbs 29:1]]. Similarly, iniquity is described as a breach in a high wall, whose breaking comes "at an **instant**" [[Isaiah 30:13]]. The word is also used to characterize the unexpected rise of an enemy [[Habakkuk 2:7]] and in legal distinctions, such as a man being thrust **suddenly** without enmity [[Numbers 35:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which **pethaʻ** appears:
* `{{H6597}}` **pithʼôwm** (instantly; straightway, sudden(-ly)): This word is very similar in meaning and is often used alongside `{{H6621}}` to emphasize the suddenness of an event, as seen when a man's calamity is said to come **suddenly** [[Proverbs 6:15]].
* `{{H7665}}` **shâbar** (to burst... break... crush, destroy): This verb often describes the outcome of the sudden event marked by **pethaʻ**. One who hardens his neck will suddenly be **destroyed** [[Proverbs 29:1]].
* `{{H343}}` **ʼêyd** (calamity, destruction): This noun defines the nature of the sudden event. The Bible warns that a person's **calamity** will come suddenly [[Proverbs 6:15]].
* `{{H1920}}` **hâdaph** (to push away or down; cast away (out), drive, expel, thrust (away)): This action word is used in a legal scenario to describe someone being **thrust** suddenly but without malice [[Numbers 35:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6621}}` is primarily tied to the concept of divine judgment and consequence.
* **The Swiftness of Judgment:** The word underscores that judgment for rebellion and hardened hearts is not only certain but can also be terrifyingly abrupt. The warning that a man will be **suddenly** broken without remedy serves as a stark reminder of this principle ([[Proverbs 29:1]], [[Proverbs 6:15]]).
* **The Consequence of Iniquity:** The use of **pethaʻ** is often directly linked to wrongdoing. Iniquity is portrayed as a structural flaw in a wall that leads to its collapse "at an **instant**," illustrating how sin creates the conditions for its own sudden ruin [[Isaiah 30:13]].
* **The Unforeseen Nature of Events:** Whether describing the rise of an enemy [[Habakkuk 2:7]] or an accidental death [[Numbers 35:22]], the word removes any notion of premeditation or warning, highlighting that pivotal moments can occur in the blink of an eye.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6621}}` is a term that injects a sense of immediacy and surprise into the biblical narrative. While it can be used in a neutral, legal context to define an unintentional act, its primary role is to describe the sudden arrival of calamity and destruction. It serves as a powerful scriptural warning that the consequences of hardening one's heart against God can manifest in an instant, without any opportunity for escape.
TRV