pe.rekh denotes harsh treatment in forced service or rule over another person.

The attested usage consistently describes harshness exercised in making people serve or in ruling over them. It characterizes Egypt's treatment of Israel in Exodus and forbidden harsh rule over a brother in Leviticus, while Ezekiel joins it with force in a rebuke of rulers.

1. Harsh treatment in service and rule · dominant

   In Exodus 1:13 and Exodus 1:14, the masculine singular absolute form describes the Egyptians' treatment of the sons of Israel as they made them serve and made their lives bitter through labor. In Leviticus 25:43, Leviticus 25:46, and Leviticus 25:53, it qualifies prohibited rule over a brother; in Ezekiel 34:4, the APB renders the clause "with force and with severity you ruled them."

   Exodus 1:13Exodus 1:14Leviticus 25:43Leviticus 25:46Leviticus 25:53Ezekiel 34:4

In the Anselm Project Bible: The APB presents the term with "severity" in every supplied verse, whether describing forced service or the manner of ruling. This consistent English wording confirms the verse-level presentation rather than isolating a precise English equivalent.