Original Word: פַחַז
Part of Speech: Noun Masculine
Transliteration: pachaz
Pronunciation: pah-khaz'
Phonetic Spelling: (pakh'-az)
Definition: ebullition, froth
Meaning: The term "pachaz" refers to ebullition or froth, symbolizing instability or recklessness. It is used metaphorically to describe a lack of steadiness or reliability, akin to the frothy, bubbling nature of boiling liquid.

Word Origin: Derived from the root פָּחַז (pachaz), which conveys the idea of being light, frothy, or boiling over.

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: There is no direct Greek equivalent for "pachaz" in the Strong's Concordance. However, concepts of instability or recklessness might be expressed in Greek through terms like ἀκαταστασία (akatastasia • Strong's Greek 181), which denotes disorder or instability, or ἀσταθής (astathēs • not in Strong's, but related to instability).

Usage: The word "pachaz" appears in the Hebrew Bible to describe a state of instability or recklessness. It is used in contexts that highlight the unreliable or impetuous nature of individuals or actions.

Context: • Occurrences in Scripture: The term "pachaz" is found in Genesis 49:4, where Jacob addresses his son Reuben. In this passage, Jacob describes Reuben as "unstable as water," using "pachaz" to convey Reuben's impetuous and unreliable nature. The verse reads: "Unstable as water, you shall not excel, because you went up to your father’s bed; then you defiled it—he went up to my couch!" (Berean Standard Bible).
• Contextual Analysis: In Genesis 49:4, Jacob's use of "pachaz" serves as a rebuke to Reuben for his past actions, specifically his indiscretion with Bilhah, Jacob's concubine. The metaphor of water's instability underscores Reuben's lack of self-control and the consequences of his actions, which ultimately affect his standing among his brothers.
• Theological Implications: The use of "pachaz" in this context highlights the biblical theme of character and its impact on one's destiny. It serves as a cautionary example of how impulsive behavior can lead to a loss of privilege and blessing.

Word Origin
from pachaz
Definition
wantonness, recklessness
NASB Translation
uncontrolled (1).

מַּ֫חַז noun [masculine] wantonness, recklessness, unbridled license; — Genesis 49:4, abstract for concrete (+ כַּמַּיִם like [boiling, or overflowing] water).

unstable

From pachaz; ebullition, i.e. Froth (figuratively, lust) -- unstable.

see HEBREW pachaz

מְפַכִּ֔ים מפכים פַּ֤חַז פחז mə·p̄ak·kîm mefakKim məp̄akkîm pa·ḥaz Pachaz paḥazInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts