פָּשַׂע (pa.sa)
pa.sa
to step
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb pas’a carries a simple but vivid sense of movement: to step or march forward. It appears only once in the Old Testament, found in Isaiah 27:4. In this specific context, the word describes the active posture of God’s defense, portraying Him not as a passive observer but as one who steps out to engage.
This rare usage distinguishes itself from words meaning to stumble or fall. Instead, pas’a implies purposeful stride and stability. The image is of someone advancing with intent, suggesting that the divine protection described in Isaiah is dynamic and deliberate. Translators often render this action as "march" or "step forward," capturing the physical reality of a guardian moving into position.
The theological weight of this single occurrence lies in its personification of God’s justice. By using a verb of locomotion, the text emphasizes that divine retribution and protection are active forces. The word reminds readers that the shield mentioned in the verse is wielded by a presence that moves with purpose toward its goal.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word pas’a means to step or march forward with purpose. It appears just once in the Old Testament, in Isaiah 27:4. Here, it describes God moving into action, not as a distant observer, but as one who actively engages with what stands against His people.
This image offers deep comfort. When life feels chaotic or when threats seem overwhelming, we are reminded that God does not remain passive. He steps forward with deliberate intent. His protection is dynamic, grounded in His justice and care for those He loves. You can trust that He is present and active in your circumstances.
Even in moments of judgment or difficulty, this word highlights God’s steadfast nature. He moves with clarity and strength. For your faith, this means you are never facing challenges alone. The One who steps forward to defend His people is also the One who walks beside you, offering stability and hope in every season.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- I will march1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אֶפְשְׂעָ֥ה1×
Key Verses
-
Isaiah 27:4
Wrath is not in me, but if I should find briers and thorns, I would do battle! I would march on them and I would burn them together.
This verse uses pas'a to show God actively marching into battle against briers and thorns, demonstrating His decisive intervention rather than passive observation.