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H6293 · Hebrew · Old Testament
פָּגַע
Paga'
Verb
To meet, to encounter, to intercede, to fall upon

Definition

The Hebrew verb paga' carries a rich semantic range. It can describe a hostile meeting (falling upon/attacking), a neutral encounter (meeting someone on a road), or most significantly, intercessory prayer — making entreaty on behalf of another by "meeting" God at the point of their need. In its intercessory sense it describes the intense, purposeful approach of the pray-er to God for someone else.

Usage & Theological Significance

Paga' is one of the Bible's most powerful prayer words. Isaiah uses it to depict the Suffering Servant's intercessory work: "he bore the sin of many, and makes intercession for the transgressors" (Isaiah 53:12). This same language carries forward to Christ's ongoing high-priestly intercession (Hebrews 7:25). The word calls believers to intentional, targeted intercession — not passive prayer but an active "meeting" of God on behalf of another person.

Key Bible Verses

Isaiah 53:12 He poured out his soul to death and was numbered with the transgressors; yet he bore the sin of many, and makes intercession for the transgressors.
Genesis 23:8 Then Ephron was sitting among the Hittites, and Ephron the Hittite answered Abraham in the hearing of the Hittites, of all who had entered the gate of his city.
Jeremiah 7:16 As for you, do not pray for this people, or lift up a cry or prayer for them, and do not intercede with me, for I will not hear you.
Jeremiah 27:18 But if they are prophets, and if the word of the LORD is with them, then let them intercede with the LORD of hosts.
Romans 8:27 And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.

Related Words

External Resources

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