The meaning of “פֶּתַח”
Understanding pethach reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
door, entering (in), entrance (-ry), gate, opening, place. - an opening (literally), i.e. door (gate) or entrance way 1)...
פֶּתַח
door, entering (in), entrance (-ry), gate, opening, place. - an opening (literally), i.e. door (gate) or entrance way 1) opening, doorway, entrance
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Genesis 18:10 | “And he said, I will certainly return unto thee according to the time of life; and, lo, Sarah thy wife shall have a son. And Sarah heard it in the tent door, which was behind him.” Word: פֶּתַח (pethach) | |
| Deuteronomy 31:15 | “And the Lord appeared in the tabernacle in a pillar of a cloud: and the pillar of the cloud stood over the door of the tabernacle.” Word: פֶּתַח (pethach) | |
| 2 Samuel 11:9 | “But Uriah slept at the door of the king’s house with all the servants of his lord, and went not down to his house.” Word: פֶּתַח (pethach) | |
| 2 Chronicles 12:10 | “Instead of which king Rehoboam made shields of brass, and committed them to the hands of the chief of the guard, that kept the entrance of the king’s house.” Word: פֶּתַח (pethach) | |
| Psalms 24:9 | “Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.” Word: פֶּתַח (pethach) |
Usage Statistics
Related Words
Cross-referenced Strong's numbers with semantic or etymological connections.
Theological Word Study: Door
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Door, entrance, opening
The Hebrew petach (פֶּתַח) means opening or entrance. Sin crouches 'at the door' (Genesis 4:7). The Passover blood was applied to the doorframe for protection (Exodus 12:7).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Door, gate
The Greek thura (θύρα) means door. Jesus declared 'I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved' (John 10:9). He stands at the door and knocks, seeking entrance (Revelation 3:20).