פֶּקַע
a semi-globe
Definition
The Hebrew noun פֶּקַע (peqaʻ) refers to a specific architectural ornament, likely a rounded, knob-like carving or a semi-globular shape. It appears exclusively in the descriptions of Solomon's Temple and its furnishings, specifically as a decorative element on the cedar paneling inside the Temple's inner sanctuary (1 Kings 6:18) and on the rim of the large bronze basin known as the 'Sea' (1 Kings 7:24). In both contexts, it describes a repeated, sculpted ornamentation, contributing to the elaborate and holy beauty of the sacred space. The term is used interchangeably with its feminine form, פַּקֻּעָה (paqquʿah, H6498), in the parallel description of the bronze Sea.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only twice in the Old Testament, both times in the book of 1 Kings within detailed architectural descriptions. Its usage is highly specific to the ornamentation of sacred objects in Solomon's Temple. In 1 Kings 6:18, the cedar walls of the inner sanctuary (the Holy Place) were carved with figures of gourds and open flowers, with 'peqaʻim' (the plural form) forming part of this intricate design. In 1 Kings 7:24, two rows of 'peqaʻim' were cast as part of the decorative rim of the large bronze basin that stood in the Temple courtyard.
Etymology
פֶּקַע (peqaʻ) derives from an unused Hebrew root (פּקע) generally understood to mean 'to burst' or 'to split open.' This root sense suggests the ornament's shape may have resembled something round or bulbous that has burst forth, like a bud or a gourd. The word is a primary noun from this root and is directly related to its feminine counterpart, פַּקֻּעָה (paqquʿah, H6498), which carries the same meaning and is used in parallel passages.
Semantic Range
While פֶּקַע itself is a technical architectural term, its theological significance lies in what it represents: the meticulous care, immense resources, and exquisite beauty dedicated to building a dwelling place for God's presence. The detailed descriptions, including these specific ornaments, emphasize that the worship of Yahweh involved the offering of humanity's finest artistry and craftsmanship. Understanding that even the small decorative knobs were specified by God (based on the pattern given to David, cf. 1 Chronicles 28:11-19) highlights the holiness of the entire project and the principle that God is worthy of our very best.
In ancient Near Eastern temple architecture, elaborate carvings and cast decorations were common, signifying the importance, wealth, and divine association of the structure. The 'peqaʻ' was likely a recognizable artistic motif, perhaps resembling a budding flower or a specific type of gourd, which carried symbolic meaning related to life and fertility. Its inclusion on both the inner wooden paneling and the outer bronze basin shows a cohesive artistic theme throughout the Temple complex, designed to create an environment that reflected the glory and creativity of God, distinct from, yet using the artistic language of, the surrounding cultures.
פַּקֻּעָה (paqquʿah, H6498) — The feminine form of the same word, used interchangeably in the description of the bronze Sea (1 Kings 7:24).
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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