פָּזַז (pa.zaz)
pa.zaz
be refined
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb pazaz appears only once in the Old Testament, found in 1 Kings 10:17. In this specific context, it describes silver that has been "refined." The text uses the Hophal stem, a verbal form that indicates passive or reflexive action, meaning the subject undergoes the process rather than performing it. Here, the refined silver serves as a backdrop for the throne of Solomon’s court, highlighting its purity and value.
Lexical sources note that the exact etymology is uncertain, with some scholars linking it to concepts of refinement or perhaps even shaking or trembling during the purification process. Regardless of its root, the word carries a clear sense of being tested and purified. Its solitary use in Scripture makes it a rare term for describing the finished state of precious metal, emphasizing quality through the lens of labor and heat.
Translators typically render this word simply as "refined" to convey that the silver has been stripped of impurities. The verse does not discuss the method but focuses on the result: material that has passed through fire and emerged clean. This single occurrence anchors the word in the imagery of royal wealth, where refined materials signify status and divine blessing.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The verb pazaz appears only once in Scripture, describing silver that has been refined. In 1 Kings 10:17, it highlights the purity of materials used in Solomon’s court. This rare term reminds us that true value often comes through a process of testing and purification.
When we face trials, we might feel like metal in a furnace. Yet, just as fire removes impurities from silver, God uses difficult seasons to refine our character. The result is not destruction, but a clearer reflection of His glory. We are being prepared for something greater than we can imagine right now.
Trust that the heat you experience has a purpose. You are not being discarded; you are being made ready. This promise brings hope to every heart seeking purity and strength in their walk with God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- refined1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- מוּפָֽז\׃1×