Phassaron
Biblical Figure and Name Variant
Phassaron is a name variant found in some early English translations, like the King James Version, for the biblical figure more commonly known as Pashhur (Jeremiah 20:1-6). The name Pashhur is of Egyptian origin, meaning "son of Horus," reflecting the cultural interconnections of the period. Modern translations standardize the name as Pashhur to avoid confusion.
Role in the Narrative of Jeremiah
Pashhur served as the "chief officer" (Hebrew: paqid nagiyd) in the temple of Jerusalem (Jeremiah 20:1). His role was one of significant religious authority, responsible for maintaining order in the temple precincts. When the prophet Jeremiah delivered a message of impending judgment against Judah and Jerusalem for their idolatry and social injustice, Pashhur took decisive action. He had Jeremiah beaten and placed in the stocks at the Upper Benjamin Gate of the temple for a full day (Jeremiah 20:2). This act was a public humiliation and an official censure intended to discredit Jeremiah's prophetic ministry.
Jeremiah's Response and Prophecy
Upon his release, Jeremiah delivered a specific and personal oracle from God against Pashhur. The prophet declared that Pashhur's name would be changed to "Terror on Every Side" (Hebrew: Magor-missabib), foretelling the coming Babylonian invasion (Jeremiah 20:3-4). Jeremiah prophesied that Pashhur, along with his friends and family, would be taken captive to Babylon, where he would die and be buried (Jeremiah 20:6). This prophecy starkly contrasted Pashhur's position of security with the fearful future that awaited him for opposing God's messenger.
Significance and Legacy
The confrontation between Pashhur and Jeremiah embodies a central theme of the prophetic books: the clash between the comfortable assurances of the religious establishment and the difficult, unwelcome truth of God's word. Pashhur represents leaders who prioritize political stability and institutional preservation over faithful obedience to God's revealed will. His fate, as pronounced by Jeremiah, serves as a sobering example that opposing God's word ultimately leads to downfall, even for those in high religious office. His story underscores that true authority resides not in title or position, but in alignment with God's prophetic message.
Biblical Context
The figure appears exclusively in the book of Jeremiah, specifically in chapter 20. He is identified as the son of Immer and a chief officer in the temple. His role in the narrative is as an antagonist who physically punishes the prophet Jeremiah for his prophecies of doom, triggering a direct divine judgment oracle against him personally.
Theological Significance
Pashhur's story teaches about the nature of true and false authority within the community of faith. It demonstrates that religious office does not guarantee fidelity to God and that persecuting God's messengers is a grave sin. The episode highlights God's commitment to vindicate his true prophets and the certainty that his word of judgment will be fulfilled, even against the powerful. It serves as a warning against silencing uncomfortable truth.
Historical Background
Pashhur's Egyptian name suggests his family had served in the temple for generations, possibly dating back to the time of Egyptian influence in Judah. Archaeological evidence, such as the Lachish Letters, confirms the political tension and fear of Babylonian invasion that form the backdrop of Jeremiah's ministry. The title "chief officer" (paqid) is attested in other ancient Near Eastern administrative contexts, indicating a real governmental and religious position.