פָּרָשָׁה

פָּרָשָׁה

exposition

Definition

The Hebrew noun פָּרָשָׁה (pârâshâh) refers to a detailed explanation, declaration, or summary of a matter. In its two biblical occurrences, it conveys the sense of a full account or exposition of events. In Esther 4:7, Mordecai gives Esther a 'full account' (pârâshâh) of Haman's plot and the money promised for the destruction of the Jews. In Esther 10:2, the chronicles of King Ahasuerus contain the 'full account' (pârâshâh) of Mordecai's greatness and power. The word implies a thorough, official, or written declaration that makes a complex situation clear.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only in the book of Esther, both times in contexts of royal documentation and communication. It describes an official report that conveys critical information. In Esther 4:7, it is a verbal/written report of a conspiracy. In Esther 10:2, it is part of the official chronicles recording a person's deeds. The usage pattern shows it is a formal term for an authoritative exposition, likely used in administrative or court settings.

Etymology

Derived from the root פָּרָשׁ (H6567, pârash), meaning 'to make distinct,' 'declare,' 'explain,' or 'separate.' This root conveys the idea of making something clear or specific. פָּרָשָׁה is the noun form, indicating 'the thing that is explained' or 'the declaration itself.' Related words include פָּרָשׁ (parash, H6567, 'to interpret') and מִפְרָשׁ (miphrash, H4662, 'interpretation').

Semantic Range

While not a central theological term, פָּרָשָׁה highlights the biblical theme of God's providence being revealed through human communication and documentation. In Esther, the 'full account' is a vehicle God uses to inform His people (Esther 4:7) and preserve the record of His deliverance (Esther 10:2). It reminds readers that God works through the clear proclamation of truth and the preservation of testimony, which are foundational to biblical faith and community identity. In the Persian court setting of Esther, a פָּרָשָׁה would have been understood as an official report or entry in the royal annals. Such documents were crucial for administration, law, and historical memory in ancient empires. The term implies a level of formality, detail, and authority that differs from casual storytelling. It reflects a culture that valued written records for governance and legacy, much like modern legal or historical documentation. דָּבָר (davar, H1697) — a more general term for 'word,' 'matter,' or 'thing,' without the specific nuance of a detailed exposition. סֵפֶר (sepher, H5612) — refers to a 'book' or 'document' as a physical object, whereas פָּרָשָׁה is the explanatory content within it. דִּבְרָה (divrah, H1700) — 'cause,' 'manner,' or 'reason,' focusing more on the circumstance than the detailed account.

Word Details