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H6437 · Hebrew · Old Testament
פָּנָה
panah
Verb
to turn, face toward, look

Definition

To physically or spiritually turn toward or away from something. Turning toward God is repentance and attention; turning away is apostasy. The same root gives panim (face).

Usage & Theological Significance

The call to 'turn' runs throughout prophetic literature as a plea for repentance. When Israel turned their faces from God, they pursued idols; turning back was restoration.

Key Bible Verses

Isaiah 45:22 Turn to me and be saved, all the ends of the earth!
Lamentations 1:8 She herself groaned and turned her face away.
Numbers 16:42 When the congregation turned toward the tent of meeting...

Word Study

Closely related to panim (H6440, face), this verb captures the directional nature of relationship — you face what you value. Divine 'turning toward' Israel signals mercy; their turning away signals rebellion.

Related Words

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