פְּחֶ֫תֶת (pe.che.tet)
pe.che.tet
eating
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun pechetet describes a process of boring or eating away, resulting in a hole or hollow space. It appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in Leviticus 13:55, where it characterizes the specific nature of leprous decay within garments.
In this context, the word highlights how the affliction does not merely sit on the surface but actively consumes the fabric from within. This usage provides a concrete image for the invisible damage that can compromise the integrity of an object, illustrating why such items required careful inspection and often removal.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word pechetet describes a quiet, persistent eating away that creates a hollow space. In Leviticus, it refers to mildew that consumes fabric from within, changing its color and structure even when the damage is not immediately visible on the surface. This image reminds us that some issues in our lives or relationships are not just superficial spots but deep-seated patterns that slowly erode integrity if left unchecked.
When we encounter this concept in Scripture, it invites us to look beyond appearances. Just as a priest had to inspect garments thoroughly after washing to ensure the decay was gone, we are encouraged to examine our hearts with honesty and care. This process is not about condemnation but about restoration, ensuring that what remains is whole and pure.
Understanding this word helps us appreciate the value of thoroughness in spiritual growth. It suggests that true cleansing involves addressing the root causes of trouble, not just the symptoms. By doing so, we preserve the integrity of our faith and our communities, allowing God’s presence to dwell in spaces that are fully restored.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- [is] a mildew1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- פְּחֶ֣תֶת1×
Key Verses
-
Leviticus 13:55
Then the priest shall examine it, after the plague is washed; and behold, if the plague hasn’t changed its color, and the plague hasn’t spread, it is unclean; you shall burn it in the fire. It is a mildewed spot, whether the bareness is inside or outside.
This verse uses pechetet to describe a mildewed spot that has been washed but remains discolored, highlighting the need for thorough inspection of hidden damage.