מִפְרָשׂ

an expansion

Definition

The Hebrew noun מִפְרָשׂ (miphrâs) refers to something that is spread out or expanded, conveying the idea of a broad, outstretched expanse. In its two biblical occurrences, it describes the spreading out of clouds in Job 36:29, where God's understanding of the 'spreading of the clouds' is highlighted. In Ezekiel 27:7, it refers to an embroidered 'spreading' or fine linen sail used on a Tyrian ship, indicating a piece of fabric stretched out. The word consistently carries the sense of something being extended or unfolded over an area.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the Old Testament, in two distinct contexts. In the poetic book of Job (Job 36:29), it appears in a meteorological context, describing the spreading out of clouds as part of God's majestic and mysterious workings in nature. In the prophetic book of Ezekiel (Ezekiel 27:7), it is used in a material, maritime context, referring to an expensive, embroidered linen sail or awning that served as the banner for the ship of Tyre, symbolizing its luxury and pride.

Etymology

מִפְרָשׂ is a noun derived from the root פָּרַשׂ (pāras, H6566), which means 'to spread out,' 'to stretch,' or 'to expand.' This root is used for spreading wings (Deuteronomy 32:11), garments (2 Kings 8:15), or hands in prayer (Exodus 9:29). The noun form מִפְרָשׂ specifically denotes the 'thing that is spread out' or the 'expansion' itself, focusing on the result of the action.

Semantic Range

While not a central theological term, מִפְרָשׂ contributes to a biblical theme of God's sovereignty and craftsmanship. In Job 36:29, it is part of Elihu's speech emphasizing that God's understanding is beyond human comprehension, even in the ordinary 'spreading of the clouds.' This invites awe at God's control over creation. In Ezekiel 27:7, the 'spreading' sail represents human pride and luxury that is ultimately judged. Understanding this Hebrew word enriches reading by connecting a simple action—spreading—to both divine mystery and human ambition.

In the ancient Near East, finely embroidered linens and sails, as mentioned in Ezekiel 27:7, were symbols of great wealth, technical skill, and national pride for trading powers like Tyre. The 'spreading' in Job 36:29 reflects an observational understanding of weather, where the spreading out of clouds was a visible and impressive phenomenon attributed to divine activity.

רָקִיעַ (rāqîaʿ, H7549) — specifically the 'firmament' or expanse of the sky (Genesis 1:6-8), a fixed dome, whereas מִפְרָשׂ is a spreading out. מָתַח (māthach, H5186) — a verb meaning 'to spread out' or 'to stretch' (like a tent, Isaiah 40:22), focusing more on the act of stretching than the resulting expanse.

Word Details

Scripture References