The Hebrew root pâthar, represented by H6622, means to open up, i.e. (figuratively) interpret (a dream). It appears 9 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible. Its usage is highly specific, consistently referring to the act of interpreting dreams, particularly in the context of divine revelation.
The word H6622 is found exclusively in the narrative of Joseph in Genesis. It first appears when Pharaoh's butler and baker are imprisoned with Joseph, having dreamed a dream H2472 but having no interpreter H6622 Genesis 40:8. Later, Pharaoh H6547 himself is troubled by a dream, and though he calls for all the magicians H2748 and wise men H2450 of Egypt H4714, none could interpret his dream Genesis 41:8. The word's usage culminates in Joseph H3130, who is presented to Pharaoh as one who can interpret dreams, ultimately demonstrating that the interpretation he provides is accurate and comes to pass (Genesis 41:13, Genesis 41:15).
Several related words clarify the context in which H6622 is used:
- H6623 pithrôwn (interpretation): This is the noun form, meaning interpretation (of a dream). Joseph uses this when he asks the butler and baker about their dreams, stating, "Do not interpretations belong to God?" Genesis 40:8.
- H2472 chălôwm (dream): This word for a dream is the object that requires interpretation. The entire narrative is driven by the fact that Pharaoh and his servants have a dream but cannot understand its meaning without an interpreter Genesis 41:8.
- H2450 châkâm (wise): This term describes the wise men of Egypt who were summoned by Pharaoh. Their failure to interpret the dream contrasts sharply with Joseph's God-given ability, setting the stage for his elevation Genesis 41:8.
The theological weight of H6622 centers on the source of true understanding and wisdom.
- Divine Revelation: The ability to interpret is not presented as a human skill but as a gift from God H430. Joseph makes this clear when he attributes the power of interpretation directly to God Genesis 40:8.
- Insufficiency of Human Wisdom: The narrative uses the failure of Egypt's most esteemed magicians H2748 and wise men H2450 to interpret Pharaoh's dream to show the limitations of worldly wisdom when faced with divine communication Genesis 41:8.
- Vindication of God's Messenger: Joseph's successful interpretations, which are proven true by events, serve as God's validation of His servant. The chief baker is hanged H8518 and the butler restored H7725 to his office H3653 exactly as Joseph had interpreted (Genesis 40:22, Genesis 41:13).
In summary, H6622 is more than a simple verb for interpretation; it is a key term in the story of Joseph that distinguishes divine revelation from human intellect. It functions within the narrative to demonstrate that the power to "open up" the meaning of dreams belongs to God alone. Through Joseph's ability to interpret where others failed, God's sovereignty is displayed, elevating his servant and unfolding his divine plan within the heart of Egypt.
TRV