פַּר

The Hebrew word פַּר (par) refers to a bullock, a young bull. The term is often used in the Old Testament within the context of sacrificial offerings. These animals were valuable, and their sacrifice represented a significant dedication to God. Beyond its cultic use, "par" could also simply refer to a young bull that would be used for work or as a source of food.

The semantic range of "par" is generally straightforward, largely focusing on the animal itself. However, its theological weight comes from its prominent role in the Levitical sacrificial system. The offering of a bullock was often prescribed for sins of the whole congregation, or for leaders, indicating its significance in atonement and purification rituals. The size and strength of a bullock would have made it a substantial and costly sacrifice, emphasizing the gravity of sin and the magnitude of God's provision for expiation.

Key biblical usage highlights its central role in various offerings, including sin offerings, burnt offerings, and peace offerings. In some prophetic texts, the offering of bullocks is used metaphorically to represent genuine worship and repentance, suggesting that the outward act of sacrifice was meant to be accompanied by an inward transformation of the heart. The consistent use of "par" in ritual contexts underscores the importance of animal sacrifice in ancient Israelite worship.