פָּשַׂק (pa.saq)

pa.saq

to open

H6589 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

H:V

Language: Biblical Hebrew
Testament: Old Testament
Occurrences: 1 verses
Root: —
Part of speech: H:V

Word Overview

The Hebrew verb paśaq means to part or open wide, describing a physical separation that creates an opening. In Proverbs 13:3, it is used metaphorically to describe the mouth being "open" through talkativeness. This usage highlights how speech can physically manifest a lack of restraint, where the lips are parted in a way that reveals more than one intends.

While the root sense involves splitting or dividing space, the text applies this image to human behavior. The word appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, making its specific context in Proverbs particularly significant for understanding wisdom literature's focus on self-control and the dangers of careless speech.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word paśaq describes the physical act of parting or opening wide, creating a clear separation. In Proverbs 13:3, this image is applied to speech, where opening one’s lips widely becomes a sign of lacking restraint. This vivid picture reminds us that our words are not just sounds but actions with real consequences for our inner lives.

When we speak without thinking, we expose our souls to harm. Guarding your mouth is an act of self-preservation and wisdom. It invites you to pause before speaking, choosing silence or careful words over impulsive expression. This simple practice protects your heart from the ruin that careless talk can bring.

How it's translated

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

[one who] opens1×

Forms in the text

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

פֹּשֵׂ֥ק1×

Key Verses

Proverbs 13:3
He who guards his mouth guards his soul. One who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.

This verse uses paśaq to contrast guarding one's soul with the self-destructive result of speaking without restraint.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word paśaq mean?

Paśaq means to open wide or part something physically. In the Bible, it is used metaphorically to describe speech that lacks control, as seen in Proverbs 13:3 where opening one's lips leads to ruin.

Why is paśaq only found once in the Bible?

This verb appears only in Proverbs 13:3. Its rare usage makes this specific context particularly important for understanding how wisdom literature connects physical actions like speaking to spiritual outcomes.

How does paśaq relate to self-control?

By describing speech as an opening that exposes the soul, paśaq highlights the need for restraint. It suggests that guarding your mouth is essential for protecting your inner life from harm.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Proverbs 1 verse

Proverbs 13:3

He who guards his mouth guards his soul. One who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.