### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term פְּלַג (pᵉlag, `{{H6387}}`) derives from the root פָּלַג (pâlag), which fundamentally signifies "to divide," "to separate," or "to split." Its core semantic range encompasses notions of division, partitioning, and the resulting "half" or "portion" that emerges from such a division. It can refer to a physical bisection or a temporal partitioning. The concept of "dividing" can also imply a separation into distinct groups or entities, though its biblical usage in Aramaic leans heavily towards temporal division.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic word, פְּלַג (pᵉlag, `{{H6387}}`) appears exclusively in the Aramaic sections of the Book of Daniel. Its primary occurrences are found in prophetic contexts, specifically relating to periods of time. In [[Daniel 7:25]], the phrase "a time, times, and a half a time" (וּפְלַג זִמְנִין - *uph'lag zimnin*) is used. Here, פְּלַג clearly denotes "half," signifying a division of a "time" (likely a year or a significant period, though the precise duration is debated). This phrase describes the duration of the persecution by the "little horn," a symbolic power. The "half" emphasizes a truncated or incomplete period, suggesting a divine limit to this oppressive reign. This usage in Daniel is crucial for understanding prophetic chronology and the sovereignty of God over historical epochs, even those marked by tribulation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Hebrew cognate is פָּלַג (pâlag, `{{H6388}}`), which means "to divide," "to separate," or "to cleave." This root is famously seen in the name Peleg ([[Genesis 10:25]]), whose name means "division," because "in his days the earth was divided." This connection underscores the fundamental meaning of separation or partitioning. Related concepts include: division, separation, portion, and half. In the context of Daniel, it is closely tied to the concept of defined time periods (זְמַן, *zeman*, `{{H2166}}`). The idea of divine sovereignty over time, particularly in limiting periods of tribulation, is a significant theological theme connected to this word's usage.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of פְּלַג (pᵉlag, `{{H6387}}`) is primarily derived from its singular, yet profound, usage in the prophetic book of Daniel. In [[Daniel 7:25]], the phrase "a time, times, and a half a time" reveals God's meticulous control over historical events, even the darkest periods of oppression. The "half a time" signifies a divinely ordained limit to the power and duration of the oppressive "little horn." It is not an open-ended period of suffering but one that is precisely measured and curtailed by God's decree. This limitation offers immense comfort and assurance to the faithful, demonstrating that evil does not triumph indefinitely and that God's plan unfolds according to His sovereign timeline. It speaks to the eschatological hope that tribulation, though real and intense, has a defined end. The division of time highlights the precision of God's prophetic word and His ultimate authority over human history, ensuring that His purposes will be achieved despite adversarial forces.
### Summary
The Aramaic word פְּלַג (pᵉlag, `{{H6387}}`) fundamentally means "a half" or "dividing," stemming from a root signifying separation. Its sole significant occurrence in the biblical text is within the prophetic book of Daniel, specifically in the phrase "a time, times, and a half a time" ([[Daniel 7:25]]). Here, פְּלַג denotes a precise temporal division, emphasizing a divinely appointed limit to a period of tribulation. Theologically, this usage underscores God's absolute sovereignty over history and time, assuring believers that even periods of intense suffering are finite and subject to His ultimate control, providing a foundation for eschatological hope and trust in His unfailing plan.
TRV