פֵּשֶׁר
𐤐𐤔𐤓
pêsher
H6592 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
An explanation or clarification, especially the interpretation of a dream, enigma, or cryptic saying; in later periods, particularly used for the deciphering or exegesis of prophetic or enigmatic texts. The term denotes the process and the product of rendering obscure, ambiguous, or symbol-laden material comprehensible, usually by providing the intended meaning.
Semantic Range
interpretation of dreams, explanation of riddles or enigmas, clarification of obscure texts, Qumran scriptural exegesis; product or outcome of interpretation
Root / Etymology
Root פ-ש-ר, with the core meaning 'to interpret, explain.' The noun פֵּשֶׁר is a derivation representing the outcome or act of interpretation. In some dialects or periods, closely related to Aramaic pǝshar, also 'interpretation.'
Historical & Contextual Notes
פֵּשֶׁר is a rare word in the Hebrew Bible but becomes significant in Second Temple Hebrew, particularly in the texts from Qumran (Dead Sea Scrolls), where it refers both to the act of interpretation and to commentaries (pesharim) that explain scriptural passages in light of contemporary events. In biblical usage (Book of Daniel), it appears specifically in the context of providing the authoritative explanation of dreams or mysterious messages. The concept contrasts with other Hebrew terms for interpretation, such as בֵּאֵר (to explain more generally), or פָּתַר (to interpret dreams). The English translation 'interpretation' usually captures the main sense but sometimes misses the technical or authoritative nuance the term acquired in later periods. The term does not have theological connotations in early usage but later acquires specialized meaning as a genre of scriptural commentary at Qumran. The English term 'interpretation' does not differentiate between this technical usage and broader senses.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
corresponding to פְּשַׁר; {an interpretation}; interpretation.
Bantu Hebrew
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פשר (p-š-r) — interpret, explain, clarify
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H6592-01 |
פֵּ֣שֶׁר | pesher | HNcmsc |
interpretation | interpretation of | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 total occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H6592-01 |
Ecclesiastes 8:1 | פֵּ֣שֶׁר | pesher | HNcmsc |
interpretation | interpretation of |