### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pithrôwn**, represented by `{{H6623}}`, means **interpretation**, specifically in the context of a dream. It is derived from the root word `{{H6622}}` **pâthar**, "to interpret". It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within the narrative of Joseph.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6623}}` is central to the account of Joseph in Egypt. When the butler and the baker dream dreams in prison, their distress comes from the lack of an interpreter, to which Joseph responds, "Do not **interpretations** belong to God?" [[Genesis 40:8]]. The term is used to describe the content of Joseph's explanations for their dreams ([[Genesis 40:12]], [[Genesis 40:18]]). It underscores that each dream had a specific meaning, with the men dreaming "each man according to the **interpretation** of his dream" ([[Genesis 40:5]], [[Genesis 41:11]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for understanding the role of interpretation:
* `{{H6622}}` **pâthar** (to open up, i.e. (figuratively) interpret (a dream); interpret(-ation, -er)): This is the root verb from which **pithrôwn** is derived. It describes the action of interpreting, as when Joseph had **interpreted** the dreams for the baker and butler [[Genesis 40:22]].
* `{{H2472}}` **chălôwm** (a dream; dream(-er)): This is the object requiring interpretation. Every use of **pithrôwn** is directly linked to a **dream**, highlighting that divine messages can require a key to be understood [[Genesis 40:5]].
* `{{H430}}` **ʼĕlôhîym** (God): The source of true interpretation. Joseph explicitly connects the ability to provide a **pithrôwn** to **God**, setting divine wisdom apart from human attempts [[Genesis 40:8]].
* `{{H5608}}` **çâphar** (to recount, i.e. celebrate;... declare, ... tell): This verb is used for the act of telling or declaring the dream so it can be interpreted. Joseph asks the men to **tell** him their dreams, and the heavens **declare** the glory of God ([[Genesis 40:8]], [[Psalms 19:1]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6623}}` is tied to the nature of divine revelation.
* **Divine Sovereignty over Knowledge:** The word's usage firmly establishes that the meaning of divine communication, such as dreams, is not accessible through human wisdom alone. The key belongs to God, who can grant the ability to understand [[Genesis 40:8]].
* **Authenticating a Prophet:** Joseph's ability to provide accurate interpretations that came to pass validated him as a messenger of God. A true **pithrôwn** is a mark of authentic divine insight, in contrast to false dreams which cause God's people to err [[Jeremiah 23:32]].
* **Purposeful Revelation:** Dreams from God are not random but are purposeful messages that require interpretation to be understood and acted upon. The **interpretation** is as crucial as the dream itself for fulfilling God's plan.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6623}}` **pithrôwn** is a precise term that encapsulates the concept of a divinely-sourced interpretation for a dream. Though used infrequently, its placement in the story of Joseph is critical, demonstrating that understanding God's messages is a gift from God himself. It highlights a key theme in scripture: that God not only speaks, but also provides the means for his revelation to be understood.
TRV