a primitive root; to open up, i.e. (figuratively) interpret (a dream); interpret(-ation, -er).
Transliteration:pâthar
Pronunciation:paw-thar'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb פָּתַר (pâthar, `{{H6622}}`) is a primitive root whose core meaning is "to open up" or "to separate." This foundational sense extends figuratively to the act of "interpreting," particularly dreams. The nuance is not merely to understand, but to *unveil* or *make clear* something that is obscure, hidden, or enigmatic. It implies revealing the deeper, often divinely ordained, meaning behind a symbolic or mysterious communication. Thus, פָּתַר signifies the process of extracting the true significance from an otherwise cryptic message, transforming ambiguity into clarity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The primary context for the use of פָּתַר (pâthar, `{{H6622}}`) in the Hebrew Bible is the interpretation of dreams. Its most prominent occurrences are found in the narrative of Joseph in the book of Genesis. Joseph is depicted as possessing a unique, divinely endowed ability to "interpret" (פָּתַר) dreams.
In [[Genesis 40]], Joseph interprets the dreams of Pharaoh's chief cupbearer and chief baker. When asked if there is an interpreter, the cupbearer states, "We have had dreams, and there is no one to interpret them" ([[Genesis 40:8]]). Joseph's immediate response highlights the divine source of this ability: "Do not interpretations belong to God? Please tell them to me" ([[Genesis 40:8]]). He then proceeds to "interpret" (פָּתַר) their dreams with precision, and his interpretations are fulfilled ([[Genesis 40:12]], [[Genesis 40:13]], [[Genesis 40:16]], [[Genesis 40:18]], [[Genesis 40:22]]).
Similarly, in [[Genesis 41]], Pharaoh's disturbing dreams lead him to seek an interpreter. His wise men and magicians are unable to "interpret" (פָּתַר) them ([[Genesis 41:8]]). The cupbearer then remembers Joseph, testifying to Joseph's past success in "interpreting" (פָּתַר) his own dream and that of the baker ([[Genesis 41:12]], [[Genesis 41:13]]). When summoned, Joseph again attributes the ability to God: "It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer" ([[Genesis 41:16]]). He then interprets Pharaoh's dreams, revealing God's plan for seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine ([[Genesis 41:24]], [[Genesis 41:25]]).
These instances underscore that the act of פָּתַר is not a human skill acquired through study or wisdom, but a supernatural gift. It is an act of divine revelation mediated through a chosen individual, demonstrating God's sovereignty over human affairs and His communication with humanity.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of "interpreting" or "unveiling" is linked to several other significant Hebrew and Aramaic terms. The most direct cognate is the Aramaic verb פְּשַׁר (peshar, `{{H6591}}`), which carries the identical meaning of "to interpret" and is used extensively in the book of Daniel for the interpretation of dreams and visions, such as Nebuchadnezzar's dream ([[Daniel 2:4]], [[Daniel 2:5]], [[Daniel 2:6]], [[Daniel 2:7]], [[Daniel 2:9]], [[Daniel 2:16]], [[Daniel 2:24]], [[Daniel 2:26]], [[Daniel 2:30]], [[Daniel 2:36]], [[Daniel 2:45]]) and Belshazzar's writing on the wall ([[Daniel 5:7]], [[Daniel 5:8]], [[Daniel 5:12]], [[Daniel 5:15]], [[Daniel 5:16]], [[Daniel 5:17]], [[Daniel 5:26]]). This close relationship between פָּתַר and פְּשַׁר highlights the consistent biblical understanding of interpreting divine messages.
Other related concepts include:
* `{{H995}}` (bîn): "to understand," implying a deeper comprehension.
* `{{H1540}}` (gālâ): "to uncover," "to reveal," often used in the context of divine revelation.
* `{{H3045}}` (yādaʿ): "to know," which can encompass understanding and discernment.
* `{{H2388}}` (ḥākām): "wise," referring to the wisdom often associated with understanding hidden things.
The act of פָּתַר is a specialized form of revelation, focusing on the deciphering of symbolic divine communication, particularly through dreams.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of פָּתַר (pâthar, `{{H6622}}`) is profound. It consistently points to God as the ultimate source of all true understanding and revelation. Human wisdom is insufficient to "interpret" divine messages; only God can provide the "interpretation" ([[Genesis 40:8]], [[Genesis 41:16]]). This emphasizes God's omnipotence and omniscience, demonstrating His sovereign control over history and His ability to communicate His plans to humanity.
The narratives involving פָּתַר portray dreams as a legitimate, though not exclusive, channel of divine communication in the Old Testament. Through the act of interpretation, God's will is made manifest, His warnings are issued, and His future plans are revealed. Joseph's role as an interpreter, therefore, is not merely that of a skilled diviner, but of a divinely appointed prophet, an instrument through whom God's purposes are unveiled and His people are prepared. The fulfillment of the interpretations further validates the divine origin of both the dreams and the ability to interpret them, reinforcing faith in God's active involvement in the world.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb פָּתַר (pâthar, `{{H6622}}`) fundamentally means "to open up" or "to unveil," extending primarily to the act of "interpreting" dreams. Biblical usage, particularly in the Joseph narratives, consistently emphasizes that this ability is not a human skill but a direct, supernatural gift from God. The act of פָּתַר serves to make clear the hidden, symbolic messages of divine revelation, demonstrating God's sovereignty, His active communication with humanity, and His providential guidance of history. It highlights the truth that true understanding of divine mysteries originates solely with the Almighty.
TRV