### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun miphlaggâh (מִפְלַגָּה), Strong's `{{H4653}}`, is derived from the root pālag (פָּלַג, `{{H6385}}`), which signifies "to divide," "to split," or "to separate." Consequently, miphlaggâh inherently carries the semantic range of "division," "classification," or "a divided portion." It denotes the act or result of separating something into distinct, often organized, parts or categories. Unlike a chaotic rending, this division implies a structured arrangement, a partitioning for specific purposes or roles. The root pālag itself is famously associated with the division of the earth in the name Peleg (`{{H6388}}`) in [[Genesis 10:25]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term miphlaggâh (`{{H4653}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[2 Chronicles 35:5]]. The context is King Josiah's grand Passover celebration, where he instructs the Levites regarding their service in the temple:
"And stand in the holy place according to the divisions of the fathers' houses of your brethren the sons of the people, and the division of a father's house for the Levites." (ESV)
Here, miphlaggâh is used in parallel with "divisions of the fathers' houses" (מַחְלְקוֹת בֵּית־אָבוֹת, `{{H4256}}`). It refers to the specific, organized "divisions" or "classifications" of the Levites, ensuring that each group knows its assigned place and duties within the temple service. This usage highlights the meticulous organization required for the proper functioning of the cultic system. It signifies an ordered arrangement, not a chaotic separation, emphasizing the assignment of specific groups to particular duties or locations within the sacred space.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to miphlaggâh is its root, pālag (`{{H6385}}`), which means "to divide" or "to split." Other related nouns stemming from this root include peleg (פֶּלֶג, `{{H6388}}`), meaning "stream" or "channel," which represents a natural "division" or flow of water.
A particularly strong conceptual parallel is maḥălōqet (מַחֲלֹקֶת, `{{H4256}}`), also translated as "division," "course," or "class." This term is frequently used for the priestly and Levitical divisions, as seen in its direct parallel with miphlaggâh in [[2 Chronicles 35:5]]. Both terms underscore the highly structured and ordered nature of temple administration.
The concepts conveyed by miphlaggâh extend to order, organization, allocation, separation into distinct groups, and classification, particularly in the context of priestly and Levitical service and the broader administration of the temple.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence, miphlaggâh carries significant theological weight. It points to the divinely ordained order and meticulous organization inherent in the Israelite cultic system. God's worship was not to be haphazard but structured, requiring specific "divisions" of labor and responsibility among the Levites. This reflects a fundamental theological principle: God is a God of order, not of confusion or chaos (cf. [[1 Corinthians 14:33]]).
The "division" implied by miphlaggâh is not negative, like a schism or fragmentation, but profoundly positive. It is a necessary partitioning that enables efficient, holy, and reverent service. It ensures that every part of the community, specifically the Levites, has its designated role and place in the worship of Yahweh. This term, therefore, highlights the importance of proper administration, adherence to established roles, and the meticulous execution of sacred duties as commanded by God through His Law and reinstituted by righteous kings like Josiah. It underscores a divine demand for structure and intentionality in all matters pertaining to the divine-human encounter.
### Summary
Miphlaggâh (מִפְלַגָּה, `{{H4653}}`) is a rare but insightful Hebrew noun derived from the root pālag (`{{H6385}}`), meaning "to divide" or "to split." Its core meaning denotes "classification" or "division," referring to an organized separation into distinct groups or categories. Its sole biblical appearance in [[2 Chronicles 35:5]] illustrates its use in the context of the Levites' "divisions" for temple service during King Josiah's Passover. The word powerfully underscores the structured and orderly nature of Israelite worship and the critical importance of assigned roles within the community for effective and reverent service to God. It reflects a profound theological emphasis on divine order and careful administration in all sacred duties.
TRV