### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pláx**, represented by `{{G4109}}`, refers to a **tablet** or flat surface. It appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The word is used both literally to describe physical objects and figuratively to represent the human heart as a surface for divine inscription.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4109}}` has two distinct contexts. Literally, it refers to the **tables** of the covenant which were kept inside the ark `{{G2787}}` along with the golden pot of manna and Aaron's rod that budded [[Hebrews 9:4]]. Figuratively, the word is used to contrast the old covenant with the new. The law was first written on **tables** of stone `{{G3035}}`, but under the new covenant, it is written by the Spirit `{{G4151}}` on fleshy `{{G4560}}` **tables** of the heart `{{G2588}}` [[2 Corinthians 3:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and significance of **pláx**:
* `{{G1242}}` **diathḗkē** (covenant, testament): This word defines the sacred contract associated with the **tables**. The physical tablets are called the "**tables** of the covenant" [[Hebrews 9:4]], linking the object directly to God's binding agreement.
* `{{G3035}}` **líthinos** (of stone): This describes the material of the original tablets mentioned in [[2 Corinthians 3:3]]. The law was inscribed on **tables** of stone, an external and rigid medium.
* `{{G2588}}` **kardía** (heart): This is the figurative **tablet** of the new covenant. In contrast to stone, God writes His law upon the fleshy **tables** of the heart, signifying an internal transformation [[2 Corinthians 3:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4109}}` is primarily found in its contrast between the literal and the figurative.
* **The Old and New Covenants:** The word highlights the shift from an external law to an internal one. The law inscribed on **tables** of stone `{{G3035}}` represents the old testament, while the law written on the heart represents the new testament ministered by Christ `{{G5547}}` [[2 Corinthians 3:3]].
* **The Inscription of the Spirit:** The use of **pláx** emphasizes that the human heart is the new surface for God's work. This inscription is not done with **ink** `{{G3188}}`, but by the "Spirit of the living God" [[2 Corinthians 3:3]], indicating a living, dynamic relationship rather than a static code.
* **The Sanctity of Divine Law:** The placement of the literal **tables** of the covenant within the ark `{{G2787}}` underscores the holiness and central importance of God's commandments in the life of Israel [[Hebrews 9:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4109}}` moves from a literal meaning of a physical tablet to a profound theological metaphor. It describes the stone **tables** of the law given to Israel, a foundational element of the old covenant. More significantly, it is used to illustrate the work of the new covenant, where God's law is no longer on an external object but is inscribed directly onto the human heart by His Spirit.
TRV