פְּלַג

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.