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H6476 · Hebrew · Old Testament
פָּצַח
patsach
Verb
to break forth, burst out in joy

Definition

Patsach (H6476) means to break forth or burst out — particularly in joyful song or shout. It is used almost exclusively for exuberant, uncontainable praise. Appearing about 8 times in the OT, it is concentrated in Isaiah and the Psalms.

Usage & Theological Significance

Patsach describes praise that cannot be contained — praise that bursts out like a dam breaking. Isaiah uses it repeatedly to envision creation itself crying out at God's redemption (Isa 44:23; 49:13; 55:12). The mountains, forests, and trees 'break forth' in singing when YHWH acts. This word captures the eschatological joy that erupts when God's glory is revealed — a foretaste of the praise of the redeemed.

Key Bible Verses

Isaiah 49:13Shout for joy, you heavens; rejoice, you earth; burst into song, you mountains!
Isaiah 55:12The mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.
Psalm 98:4Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music.
Isaiah 44:23Burst into song, you mountains, you forests and all your trees, for the LORD has redeemed Jacob.
Isaiah 52:9Burst into songs of joy together, you ruins of Jerusalem, for the LORD has comforted his people.

Word Study

Patsach is closely linked to ranan (to shout/sing for joy) in parallel clauses. Together they paint a picture of joyful noise filling creation. The word's force is kinetic — breaking through barriers. In the new creation, all of nature participates in the praise of God (Rom 8:19-22). Patsach points to that cosmic crescendo.

Related Words

External Resources

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