פֵּרָה

a hole (as broken, i.e. dug)

Definition

The Hebrew noun פֵּרָה (pêrâh) refers to a hole or pit that has been dug or broken into the ground. It specifically denotes a cavity created by excavation or burrowing, rather than a natural depression. This term is used in Isaiah 2:20 to describe the holes where people will cast their idols of silver and gold in a day of judgment, emphasizing a place of disposal or hiding. The imagery conveys a deliberate act of digging to create a cavity for concealment or abandonment.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in Isaiah 2:20. In this prophetic context, it describes the holes into which people will throw their idols in a time of divine reckoning. The usage is metaphorical, highlighting a future act of repudiation against false gods, where these man-made objects are discarded into dug-out pits as part of a dramatic rejection of idolatry.

Etymology

פֵּרָה (pêrâh) derives from the root פּוּר (pûr, H6331), which means 'to break' or 'to crush.' This root conveys the idea of creating an opening by breaking through a surface, such as digging into the earth. The noun form thus specifically denotes a hole that has been made by such an action. It is compared to חֲפֹר (ḥăphōr, H2661), another word for digging or burrowing, which shares a similar semantic field.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, פֵּרָה carries theological weight in Isaiah's prophecy about the day of the Lord. It illustrates the ultimate futility of idolatry, as even precious idols will be contemptuously discarded into holes in the ground. This vivid imagery enriches the biblical theme of God's judgment against false worship and the call to forsake human-made substitutes for the true God. Understanding this Hebrew term highlights the deliberate and shameful act of hiding idols, underscoring the prophet's message of repentance and exclusive devotion to Yahweh.

In ancient Near Eastern culture, digging holes or pits was a common method for hiding valuables, disposing of waste, or setting traps. Isaiah's audience would have readily understood the act of casting idols into such holes as a gesture of utter rejection and defilement, treating what was once worshiped as worthless refuse. This contrasts with modern disposal methods, making the imagery culturally specific but powerfully evocative.

חֲפֹר (ḥăphōr, H2661) — emphasizes the act of digging or burrowing; בּוֹר (bôr, H953) — a general term for pit, cistern, or dungeon, often used for captivity or storage.

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