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פַּ֫חַד (pa.chad)

pa.chad

thigh

H6344 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

H:N-M

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
H:N-M

Word Overview

The Hebrew noun pa.chad denotes the thigh, appearing only once in the Old Testament at Job 40:17. In this specific context, it describes the strength and stability of Behemoth’s loins. The term refers to the muscular upper part of the leg, serving as a physical anchor for the creature's power.

Its solitary occurrence highlights its use as a concrete anatomical reference rather than a metaphorical concept in this passage. Translators consistently render it as "thigh" or "loins," focusing on the literal description of the beast's physical constitution without adding symbolic layers not present in the text.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word for thigh appears just once in Scripture, nestled in the description of Behemoth at Job 40:17. This rare usage highlights physical strength and stability rather than abstract power. When God describes this creature, He points to the sinews of its thighs being knit together, emphasizing a tangible, unshakeable foundation.

For your faith, this image reminds us that true strength is often rooted in solid, unseen structures. Just as the beast’s power relies on its sturdy legs, our spiritual endurance depends on being firmly grounded in God’s truth. It is a picture of resilience that does not waver under pressure.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • thighs/ its1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • פַחֲדָ֣י/ו1×

Key Verses

  • Job 40:17
    He moves his tail like a cedar. The sinews of his thighs are knit together.

    This verse uses the term to describe the physical sinews of Behemoth, illustrating immense structural strength and stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word for thigh mean in the Bible?

It refers to the upper part of the leg, specifically the muscular area near the hip. In Job 40:17, it describes the physical strength and stability of Behemoth, highlighting its powerful sinews.

Why is this word only used once in Scripture?

The term appears exclusively in Job 40:17 to describe the anatomical structure of Behemoth. Its solitary use emphasizes a concrete, literal description of physical power rather than serving as a common metaphor.

How does this word relate to spiritual strength?

While it describes physical anatomy, the imagery suggests that true power comes from a solid foundation. It encourages believers to consider how their faith is grounded and supported by strong, enduring structures.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)