from פָּדָה and אֵל; God has ransomed; Pedahel, an Israelite; Pedahel.
Transliteration:Pᵉdahʼêl
Pronunciation:ped-ah-ale'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name Pedahel (פְּדַהְאֵל, `{{H6300}}`) is a composite theological name, rich in meaning. It is derived from two distinct Hebrew elements: the verb *padah* (פָּדָה, `{{H6299}}`), meaning "to ransom," "to redeem," or "to deliver," and the divine name *El* (אֵל, `{{H410}}`), which refers to God, often emphasizing His power, might, and faithfulness. Thus, the name Pedahel literally translates to "God has ransomed" or "God has redeemed." This etymology immediately positions the name as a profound statement of faith, attributing the act of liberation and deliverance directly to the sovereign power of the Most High God. The semantic range of *padah* typically involves the payment of a price or an act of intervention to secure freedom from bondage, danger, or obligation. When coupled with *El*, it underscores that such a redemptive act originates solely from the divine initiative and power, not from human effort or merit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Pedahel appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Numbers:
* [[Numbers 34:28]]: "And of the tribe of the children of Naphtali, Pedahel the son of Ammihud."
This solitary mention places Pedahel within the context of the division of the land of Canaan among the Israelite tribes. Pedahel, son of Ammihud, is specifically designated as one of the twelve tribal leaders chosen by Moses to assist Eleazar the priest and Joshua in apportioning the land (cf. [[Numbers 34:16-17]]). His role is significant: he represents the tribe of Naphtali, entrusted with a critical task in the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Israel. The inclusion of a man whose very name proclaims "God has ransomed" among those responsible for distributing the promised inheritance is deeply symbolic. It subtly reinforces the understanding that the land itself, and the ability to possess it, is a direct result of God's prior redemptive acts, particularly the liberation from Egyptian bondage. Pedahel's presence among these foundational figures serves as a living testament to the divine faithfulness that brought Israel out of slavery and into their inheritance.
### Related Words & Concepts
To fully appreciate the depth of Pedahel, it is essential to consider its relationship to other key Hebrew terms and theological concepts:
* **Padah (פָּדָה, `{{H6299}}`):** This verb is central to the concept of redemption in the Old Testament. It describes God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 7:8]]), the redemption of the firstborn (e.g., [[Exodus 13:13]]), and liberation from various forms of distress or captivity (e.g., [[Psalm 130:8]]). It often emphasizes the act of buying back or setting free.
* **Ga'al (גָּאַל, `{{H1350}}`):** While similar to *padah*, *ga'al* carries the nuance of "kinsman-redeemer" or "to redeem by right of kinship." It highlights the close relationship between the redeemer and the one redeemed, as seen in the book of Ruth. Both *padah* and *ga'al* contribute to the rich tapestry of biblical redemption.
* **Kopher (כֹּפֶר, `{{H3724}}`):** This noun refers to a "ransom" or "atonement price." It is the price paid to effect redemption, underscoring that redemption often involves a cost.
* **El (אֵל, `{{H410}}`):** As a divine name, *El* signifies God's strength, power, and often His covenant faithfulness. Its inclusion in Pedahel emphasizes that the act of redemption is not merely a transaction but a powerful, divine intervention.
* **Redemption:** The overarching theological concept. The name Pedahel encapsulates the very essence of God's character as a Redeemer. It points to God's active involvement in the history of His people, delivering them from bondage and bringing them into freedom and blessing.
* **Covenant:** God's redemptive acts are often framed within the context of His covenant promises, demonstrating His unwavering faithfulness to His people.
### Theological Significance
The name Pedahel, "God has ransomed," is a profound theological statement embedded within the biblical narrative. It serves as a constant reminder of God's active and personal involvement in the lives of His chosen people.
Firstly, it unequivocally declares that redemption is a divine prerogative and accomplishment. It is not something humanity achieves but something God graciously provides. This underscores the sovereignty and omnipotence of God in His redemptive plan.
Secondly, the name points to the foundational redemptive act in Israel's history: the Exodus from Egypt. This liberation from slavery was the paradigmatic act of God's *padah*—His ransoming of His people. Pedahel's very existence, centuries after the Exodus, serves as a living testimony to this enduring truth and God's continued faithfulness to His covenant.
Thirdly, in the broader sweep of biblical theology, the concept of God as Redeemer culminates in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While Pedahel is an Old Testament figure, his name prefigures the ultimate redemption wrought through Christ's sacrifice, where humanity is ransomed from sin and death. The name Pedahel, therefore, encapsulates a fundamental truth about God's character: He is the God who delivers, who sets free, and who brings His people into their promised inheritance, both physical and spiritual.
### Summary
Pedahel (פְּדַהְאֵל, `{{H6300}}`), meaning "God has ransomed," is a significant Hebrew name composed of *padah* (to ransom/redeem) and *El* (God). Appearing only once in [[Numbers 34:28]], Pedahel, son of Ammihud, is identified as a tribal leader from Naphtali, chosen to assist in the division of the promised land. His name powerfully testifies to God's redemptive work, particularly the Exodus, which liberated Israel from bondage and led them to their inheritance. The name highlights that redemption is a divine act, not a human achievement, connecting to broader concepts of God's covenant faithfulness and prefiguring the ultimate redemption found in Christ. Pedahel stands as a constant reminder of God's character as the powerful and gracious Redeemer of His people.
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