פַּרְשֵׁז (par.shez)
par.shez
to spread
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb paršez appears only once in the Old Testament, found in Job 26:9. In this specific context, it describes God’s action of spreading or covering something with a cloud. The form used is the Piel stem, which typically indicates an intensive or causative action, suggesting that the spreading is deliberate and forceful rather than passive.
While the root likely relates to concepts of separation or division, here it conveys the image of a canopy being extended over the moon. This usage paints a vivid picture of divine sovereignty, where even celestial bodies are veiled by God’s command. The word captures a moment of cosmic order, emphasizing how the heavens operate under His direct influence.
Because this occurrence is isolated to Job, the term does not develop a broad semantic range across Scripture. Its meaning remains tightly bound to the imagery of covering or enveloping, specifically in relation to atmospheric phenomena like clouds. Translators generally render it as "spread" or "cover," preserving the sense of something being laid out over another object.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Job 26:9 offers a striking image of God’s sovereignty over creation. The text describes Him spreading His cloud across the face of His throne. This is not a random weather event but a deliberate act of divine covering. It reminds us that even the vast heavens and celestial bodies operate under His direct command.
For those facing uncertainty, this verse provides comfort. God’s control extends to the skies above, ensuring order where chaos might seem to reign. You can trust that the same power that veils the moon with a cloud is also attentive to your life. His sovereignty is not distant; it is intimate and purposeful.
This imagery invites reflection on God’s majesty. He does not merely observe creation; He actively sustains it. When you look up at the clouds, remember they are part of His throne room. This connection between the cosmic and the personal offers a profound sense of peace and stability in faith.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- he spreads1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- פַּרְשֵׁ֖ז1×
Key Verses
-
Job 26:9
He encloses the face of his throne, and spreads his cloud on it.
This verse uniquely uses the verb to depict God deliberately covering His throne with a cloud, emphasizing His sovereign control over the heavens.