Answer1:

PEAR is the next revolution in PHP. This repository is bringing higher level programming to PHP. PEAR is a framework and distribution system for reusable PHP components. It eases installation by bringing an automated wizard, and packing the strength and experience of PHP users into a nicely organised OOP library. PEAR also provides a command-line interface that can be used to automatically install "packages"

Answer2:

PEAR is short for "PHP Extension and Application Repository" and is pronounced just like the fruit. The purpose of PEAR is to provide:

A structured library of open-sourced code for PHP users

A system for code distribution and package maintenance

A standard style for code written in PHP

The PHP Foundation Classes (PFC),

The PHP Extension Community Library (PECL),

A web site, mailing lists and download mirrors to support the PHP/PEAR community

PEAR is a community-driven project with the PEAR Group as the governing body. The project has been founded by Stig S. Bakken in 1999 and quite a lot of people have joined the project since then.