פָּרַר
to break up (usually figuratively), i.e. to violate, frustrate
Definition
The Hebrew verb פָּרַר (pârar) fundamentally means 'to break' or 'to break up,' but it is used almost exclusively in a figurative sense in the Old Testament. Its primary meaning is to violate or nullify a covenant, command, or oath, as seen when God says an uncircumcised male has 'broken' His covenant (Genesis 17:14). It also carries the sense of frustrating plans, making something ineffective, or bringing to nothing, such as when human counsel is 'brought to nought' (Psalm 33:10). In legal contexts, it refers to annulling a vow, as detailed in Numbers 30.
Biblical Usage
פָּרַר is used 46 times, predominantly in the Pentateuch (especially Leviticus and Numbers) and the Prophets. Its usage clusters around two main contexts: the breaking of God's covenant or commandments (Leviticus 26:15, 44) and the annulment of human vows, particularly by a father or husband (Numbers 30:8, 12-13). It is also used to describe the frustration of human plans (Isaiah 8:10) and the defeat of enemies (2 Samuel 15:34). The word appears in significant theological passages concerning covenant faithfulness.
Etymology
פָּרַר is a primitive root. It is related to the idea of splitting or breaking apart. Cognates in other Semitic languages support the core meaning of 'breaking' or 'loosening.' In biblical Hebrew, this physical sense evolved into the predominant figurative meanings of violating agreements and rendering things ineffective.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it directly addresses the concept of covenant breach. Understanding פָּרַר enriches the reading of passages about Israel's relationship with God, highlighting the serious consequences of breaking His covenant (Numbers 15:31). It underscores the conditional nature of blessings and curses tied to obedience. The word also touches on God's sovereignty, as He can frustrate human plans, and His grace, as seen in Leviticus 26:44 where He promises not to 'break' His covenant despite Israel's unfaithfulness.
In its original setting, the concept of 'breaking' a covenant or vow was a grave matter with social and religious consequences. The specific laws in Numbers 30 regarding the annulment of vows by a father or husband reflect the patriarchal structure and legal authority within the Israelite family. The term conveys a sense of rendering something legally or spiritually null and void, a stronger concept than simple disobedience.
פָּרַק (pāraq, H6561) — to tear apart or rescue, often more physical. שָׁבַר (šāḇar, H7665) — to break, smash, or fracture, commonly used for physical objects. הֵפֵר (hēp̄ēr, H6567) — a very close synonym, also meaning to break or annul a covenant.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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