### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **pᵉlag**, represented by `{{H6386}}`, means **divided**. It is a term used to describe something that is split, either literally or figuratively. This word appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, highlighting its specific application within a significant prophetic context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{H6386}}` is found in Daniel's interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream. It describes the final kingdom in the vision, represented by feet and toes made of mixed materials. The text states that because the feet and toes were part iron and part potter's clay, "the kingdom shall be **divided**" [[Daniel 2:41]]. This division is not one of complete separation, but of internal inconsistency and instability, as the kingdom would possess some of the strength of iron but also the fragility of clay.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the same context help clarify the nature of this division:
* `{{H4437}}` **malkûw** (dominion...; kingdom...): This is the entity that is described as being divided. The prophecy centers on the state of this final **kingdom** before its destruction [[Daniel 2:41]].
* `{{H6151}}` **ʻărab** (to commingle; mingle (self), mix): This verb explains the cause of the division. The iron was seen **mixed** with miry clay, creating an unstable foundation [[Daniel 2:41]].
* `{{H2635}}` **chăçaph** (clay): This word represents the brittle, weak component of the mixture. The presence of **clay** mingled with iron ensures the kingdom cannot be truly unified or strong [[Daniel 2:41]].
* `{{H6523}}` **parzel** (iron): This represents the element of strength within the divided kingdom. However, the prophecy notes that **iron** does not mix with clay, symbolizing an inherent and permanent disunity [[Daniel 2:43]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6386}}` is tied directly to its prophetic context in the book of Daniel.
* **Prophetic Instability:** The word "divided" signifies a kingdom characterized by internal conflict and a lack of cohesion. This is because its constituent parts, like iron and clay, "shall not cleave one to another" [[Daniel 2:43]].
* **Compromised Strength:** While the kingdom retains some of the "strength of the iron," its divided nature makes it fundamentally flawed. It is a portrait of power undermined by intrinsic weakness [[Daniel 2:41]].
* **Vulnerability to Divine Judgment:** The divided state of the feet and toes is the critical vulnerability that allows the "stone cut out without hands" to strike and shatter the entire statue, representing the divine overthrow of all human kingdoms [[Daniel 2:34]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6386}}` is a precise term whose sole biblical appearance carries immense prophetic significance. Used in [[Daniel 2:41]], it defines the terminal condition of the final human empire in Nebuchadnezzar's dream. The word **pᵉlag** illustrates that this kingdom's downfall is not due to external force alone, but to its own inherent, irreconcilable division.
TRV