from פֶּגַע and אֵל; accident of God; Pagiel, an Israelite; Pagiel.
Transliteration:Pagʻîyʼêl
Pronunciation:pag-ee-ale'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name פַּגְעִיאֵל (Pagʻîyʼêl, `{{H6295}}`) is a compound proper noun derived from two distinct elements: פֶּגַע (pegaʻ, `{{H6299}}`) and אֵל (ʼēl, `{{H410}}`). The root פֶּגַע (pegaʻ) carries a semantic range encompassing "encounter," "meeting," "stroke," "attack," or "accident." While "accident" might suggest randomness in modern English, in a biblical Hebrew context, particularly when combined with "El," it more accurately conveys a "divine encounter," a "providential meeting," or a "stroke of God's hand." It implies something that happens by divine design rather than mere chance. The second element, אֵל (ʼēl), is the common Semitic word for "God" or "deity," frequently used in personal names to indicate a relationship with God or a characteristic attributed to God. Thus, the name Pagʻîyʼêl signifies "Encounter of God," "Meeting of God," or "Providential Act of God," emphasizing a life or destiny marked by divine intervention or appointment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Pagʻîyʼêl (`{{H6295}}`) is exclusively found in the book of Numbers, where he is consistently identified as the son of Ocran and a leader (נָשִׂיא, nasiʼ) of the tribe of Asher. His appearances are tied to the organization and journey of Israel in the wilderness:
* [[Numbers 1:13]]: Pagʻîyʼêl is listed among the tribal leaders chosen to assist Moses and Aaron in taking the census of Israel. This immediately establishes his prominent position within the tribal structure.
* [[Numbers 2:27]]: He is mentioned as the leader of the tribe of Asher, positioned on the north side of the tabernacle, under the standard of the camp of Dan. This highlights his role in the divinely ordained order of the Israelite encampment.
* [[Numbers 7:72-77]]: Pagʻîyʼêl presents the offering for the dedication of the tabernacle on the eleventh day, following the pattern set for each tribal leader. His offering, identical to the others, underscores the unity and obedience of the tribes in worship.
* [[Numbers 10:26]]: He is named as the leader of the tribe of Asher as they set out on their journeys, maintaining his position within the marching order of the Israelite camp.
These occurrences consistently portray Pagʻîyʼêl as a figure of authority and responsibility, participating directly in the foundational administrative and ceremonial acts of the nascent Israelite nation under divine guidance. His actions are always within the framework of God's commands for His people.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is פֶּגַע (pegaʻ, `{{H6299}}`), the first component of Pagʻîyʼêl. This noun, derived from the verb פָּגַע (pagaʻ, "to meet," "to encounter," "to strike"), can denote a violent encounter or a chance occurrence, but in the context of a divine name, it strongly leans towards a purposeful, divinely orchestrated meeting or event.
Other names containing אֵל (ʼēl, `{{H410}}`) are abundant in the Hebrew Bible (e.g., Israel, Samuel, Daniel, Gabriel). These names consistently reflect a theological statement about God's character, power, or relationship with the individual. The combination of "encounter" with "God" in Pagʻîyʼêl's name places him within this rich tradition of names that declare divine interaction.
Conceptually, Pagʻîyʼêl's role as a tribal leader in Numbers connects him to themes of divine order, covenant responsibility, and corporate worship. His participation in the census, camp organization, and tabernacle dedication highlights the importance of leadership and obedience within God's chosen people.
### Theological Significance
The name Pagʻîyʼêl, meaning "Encounter of God" or "Providential Act of God," carries profound theological weight, especially for a figure occupying a position of leadership in early Israel. It suggests that his life, and perhaps his very appointment as a leader, was not a matter of human design or random chance, but a direct result of divine intervention or a significant encounter with the Divine. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative where God actively chooses and equips leaders for His purposes (e.g., Moses, Joshua, David).
The name serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and active involvement in the lives of individuals and the affairs of His people. Even what might appear as an "accident" or "chance occurrence" from a human perspective is, from a divine standpoint, a purposeful "encounter of God." For the tribe of Asher, having a leader named Pagʻîyʼêl would have served as a constant testimony to God's presence and providential care in their midst. His life, as presented in Numbers, exemplifies a leader operating under divine mandate, participating in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for Israel.
### Summary
Pagʻîyʼêl (`{{H6295}}`), son of Ocran and leader of the tribe of Asher, bears a name rich in theological meaning: "Encounter of God" or "Providential Act of God." This name, derived from פֶּגַע (pegaʻ, `{{H6299}}`) and אֵל (ʼēl, `{{H410}}`), underscores the belief that his life and leadership were marked by divine appointment and purposeful intervention rather than mere chance. His appearances in the book of Numbers consistently depict him as a key figure in the census, camp organization, and tabernacle dedication, fulfilling his duties within the divinely ordered structure of Israel. The name Pagʻîyʼêl thus stands as a testament to God's active sovereignty and His direct involvement in the lives of His chosen people, particularly in raising up leaders for His glory and the good of His covenant community.
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