Learn more about Perazim

Introduction to Perazim

Perazim is a place name that appears in the Bible, notably in the context of battles and divine intervention. The name itself is derived from the Hebrew word "pērāzîm," which means "breakthroughs" or "breaches." It reflects the idea of a significant divine intervention, where God provided victory or a breakthrough for His people. The term "Perazim" is associated with both a location and a historical event, marking an important moment in the narrative of King David’s reign.

Perazim Pronunciation

"Perazim" is pronounced as peh-RAH-zeem, with emphasis on the second syllable.

Perazim in the Bible

Perazim is mentioned in two significant places in the Bible, both related to the time of King David and his military victories:

• Battle at Baal-perazim: This event is recorded in 2 Samuel 5:20 and 1 Chronicles 14:11. In this battle, King David, after being anointed king over Israel, faced the Philistines who had come against him. The location of this victory was called "Baal-perazim," meaning "Lord of the breakthroughs" or "the place of breaches." David's victory was attributed to God's intervention, where he decisively defeated the Philistines, and the location was named in recognition of God's power to create a breakthrough in the midst of battle. The name "Perazim" encapsulates the idea of God providing a victory that might have seemed impossible by human means.
• Symbolic Meaning: The victory at Baal-perazim was a testament to God’s active involvement in the affairs of His people. David’s faith in God and his acknowledgment of divine help during the battle cemented the association of the place name with God's power to bring about breakthroughs in challenging circumstances. The term "Perazim" would later be used to represent God's ability to break through obstacles in the lives of His people.

Perazim in Biblical History and Context

Perazim, in its mention in the Old Testament, is not just a physical location but also carries deep theological significance. The place was where David experienced God's powerful intervention, and it served as a reminder to the Israelites that God could bring about victories in ways that defied natural expectations. It demonstrated God's role as a deliverer and a warrior who fights on behalf of His people. This event is often remembered as one where God gave David a clear and decisive victory over the Philistines, reinforcing the notion that God fights for Israel.

Related Terms and Meanings

- Baal-perazim: The full name of the location associated with the battle, meaning "Lord of the breakthroughs," which signifies God’s intervention in battle. - David: The king of Israel who attributed his victory at Perazim to God's direct intervention. - Philistines: The enemies of Israel, with whom David fought at Perazim. The Philistines' defeat was symbolic of God's supremacy over Israel's enemies. - Breakthrough: The term "Perazim" itself signifies a breakthrough, not only in the military sense but also in spiritual victories, where God opens a way in seemingly impossible situations.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Perazim

- The battle at Perazim is one of the early military victories of David, establishing him as a formidable leader with God’s support. - "Baal-perazim" is one of several places in the Bible where the term "Baal" is used, but it is important to note that in this context, the term is not referring to the pagan god Baal, but rather to the "Lord" or "Master" who grants breakthroughs. - Perazim is often seen as a metaphor for God's intervention in the lives of His people, showing that He can bring about breakthroughs when all seems lost.