Lexical Summary pachaz: uncontrolled Original Word: פַחַז Strong's Exhaustive Concordance unstable From pachaz; ebullition, i.e. Froth (figuratively, lust) -- unstable. see HEBREW pachaz NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom pachaz Definition wantonness, recklessness NASB Translation uncontrolled (1). Brown-Driver-Briggs מַּ֫חַז noun [masculine] wantonness, recklessness, unbridled license; — Genesis 49:4, abstract for concrete (+ כַּמַּיִם like [boiling, or overflowing] water). Topical Lexicon Core Idea פַחַז describes a sudden, ungoverned movement or impulse, pictured by a fluid that rushes or splashes before it can be contained. Scripture applies the term both to human character and to the behavior of water, allowing the physical image to illuminate moral instruction. Contexts of Use 1. Genesis 49:4—Jacob characterizes Reuben: “Unstable as water, you will not excel”. Here פַחַז depicts an unsteady temperament that forfeits privilege. Literary and Theological Significance • Fluidity as Metaphor: Both passages exploit the unpredictable motion of water to illustrate moral and eschatological truths. The patriarchal narrative warns that unchecked impulse can dissolve leadership, while the prophetic vision shows divine grace beginning with a mere trickle yet destined to become an unstoppable torrent. Historical Reception Jewish and Christian commentators have long linked Reuben’s instability to moral impurity (Genesis Rabbah; Jerome, Vulgate notes). Reformation expositors (Calvin, Poole) echoed that reading, warning pastors against impulsive conduct. In modern preaching, the Ezekiel passage is often employed to picture revival that begins small yet deepens inexorably. Practical Ministry Applications • Leadership Formation: Reuben’s example admonishes elders and parents to cultivate deliberation and self-control, lest momentary passion undo long-term calling. Related Biblical Themes • Birthright forfeiture (Genesis 25:29-34; Hebrews 12:16-17) Christological and Eschatological Echoes The uncontrolled passion of the firstborn contrasts sharply with the obedient Son who “learned obedience through what He suffered” (Hebrews 5:8). Meanwhile, the trickling water anticipates the Lamb’s throne from which “the river of the water of life” flows (Revelation 22:1). Thus פַחַז ultimately directs attention from human failure to messianic fullness. Forms and Transliterations מְפַכִּ֔ים מפכים פַּ֤חַז פחז mə·p̄ak·kîm mefakKim məp̄akkîm pa·ḥaz Pachaz paḥazLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Genesis 49:4 HEB: פַּ֤חַז כַּמַּ֙יִם֙ אַל־ NAS: Uncontrolled as water, KJV: Unstable as water, INT: Uncontrolled water shall not Ezekiel 47:2 2 Occurrences |
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