from פָּלַג; a rill (i.e. small channel of water, as in irrigation); river, stream.
Transliteration:peleg
Pronunciation:peh'-leg
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term פֶּלֶג (peleg, `{{H6388}}`) derives from the root פָּלַג (palag, `{{H6385}}`), which signifies "to divide," "to split," or "to distribute." This etymological connection is crucial for understanding the core meaning of *peleg*. It denotes a "rill," a "small channel of water," a "stream," or a "river." Unlike a vast, undifferentiated body of water, *peleg* often implies water that has been divided, channeled, or directed. This can refer to natural streams that branch off or to artificial channels, such as those used for irrigation. The semantic range thus extends from a naturally flowing rivulet to a deliberately engineered conduit, always emphasizing the aspect of division or controlled flow. It suggests a purposeful direction of water, often for the purpose of sustenance or blessing in an agrarian context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *peleg* appears in various contexts throughout the Hebrew Bible, consistently conveying themes of provision, life, and divine direction.
In poetic and wisdom literature, *peleg* frequently symbolizes abundance and blessing. [[Job 20:17]] speaks of not seeing "streams (peleg) of honey and curds," depicting a loss of rich provision. Similarly, [[Job 29:6]] portrays a time of prosperity where "the rock poured out for me streams (peleg) of oil." These instances highlight *peleg* as a source of rich, life-sustaining flow.
Perhaps one of the most iconic uses is in [[Psalm 1:3]], where the righteous person is likened to "a tree planted by streams (peleg) of water, that yields its fruit in its season." Here, *peleg* represents a constant, reliable source of nourishment and vitality, enabling flourishing and fruitfulness. This imagery underscores divine provision and the spiritual sustenance found in adhering to God's law.
[[Psalm 46:4]] declares, "There is a river whose streams (peleg) make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High." In this context, *peleg* refers to the life-giving flow that brings joy and security to Jerusalem, symbolizing God's presence and unfailing provision for His people, even amidst turmoil.
A particularly profound theological usage is found in [[Proverbs 21:1]]: "The king's heart is a stream (peleg) of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will." This verse powerfully illustrates God's absolute sovereignty. Just as a farmer can direct a *peleg* to irrigate specific fields, so too can the Lord direct the will and decisions of even the most powerful human rulers. This is not depicted as coercion, but as an effortless and complete control over the flow of influence and authority.
Prophetic texts also utilize *peleg* to describe future blessings. In [[Isaiah 30:25]], amidst promises of restoration, it is foretold that "on every lofty mountain and every high hill there will be streams (peleg) of water," signifying abundant, life-giving provision in a restored land.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root verb פָּלַג (palag, `{{H6385}}`), "to divide" or "to split." This connection is fundamental, as *peleg* refers to water that has been divided into channels or flows.
Other Hebrew words for water bodies offer helpful contrasts:
* נָהָר (nahar, `{{H5104}}`): This term generally refers to a larger, more significant river, such as the Nile or the Euphrates. While *peleg* can sometimes be translated as "river," its inherent nuance often points to a smaller, more directed flow than *nahar*.
* נַחַל (nachal, `{{H5158}}`): This word denotes a "wadi" or "torrent-bed," often a seasonal stream that flows only during rains. Unlike *nachal*, *peleg* typically implies a more consistent and reliable flow, often managed or directed.
* מַיִם (mayim, `{{H4325}}`): The general Hebrew word for "water," encompassing all forms.
Conceptually, *peleg* is closely linked to:
* **Irrigation and Agriculture:** The channeling of water is vital for sustaining life in arid regions, making *peleg* a symbol of agricultural prosperity and sustenance.
* **Provision:** It consistently represents a source of supply, whether physical (water, oil, honey) or spiritual (God's blessing).
* **Divine Control and Sovereignty:** As seen in [[Proverbs 21:1]], the ability to direct *peleg* becomes a powerful metaphor for God's ultimate authority over human affairs.
* **Life and Blessing:** In a land where water is precious, *peleg* is intrinsically tied to flourishing and well-being.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *peleg* is rich and multifaceted, primarily emphasizing God's active and intentional involvement in the provision and direction of life.
Firstly, *peleg* serves as a powerful symbol of **divine provision and blessing**. The image of the righteous person flourishing by *peleg* in [[Psalm 1:3]] speaks to the constant, life-giving sustenance that comes from a relationship with God and adherence to His word. It is not merely generic water, but *channeled* water, suggesting an intentional and directed flow of blessing from God to His people. Similarly, the streams that "make glad the city of God" in [[Psalm 46:4]] underscore God's specific care and joy-giving presence for His dwelling place.
Secondly, and perhaps most profoundly, *peleg* highlights the **sovereignty of God**. The assertion that the king's heart is like a *peleg* in the hand of the Lord ([[Proverbs 21:1]]) is a profound theological statement. It teaches that even the most powerful human wills and decisions are ultimately under God's control. God does not merely observe; He actively directs the course of human history and the intentions of human leaders, guiding them like a controlled water channel towards His divine purposes. This reassures believers of God's ultimate authority and ability to work through all circumstances.
Thirdly, *peleg* is associated with **life, fruitfulness, and restoration**. In a land prone to drought, the presence of channeled water signifies vitality and the potential for growth. Prophetic visions of a future filled with *peleg* ([[Isaiah 30:25]]) speak to God's promise of abundant restoration and renewed life for His people.
### Summary
The Hebrew word פֶּלֶג (peleg, `{{H6388}}`), stemming from the root "to divide," describes a "rill," "stream," or "channeled water." Its core meaning emphasizes water that is directed or divided, often for the purpose of irrigation or sustenance. Biblically, *peleg* consistently symbolizes divine provision, abundance, and life-giving blessing, as seen in the flourishing of the righteous ([[Psalm 1:3]]) and the gladness brought to the city of God ([[Psalm 46:4]]). Most significantly, *peleg* serves as a powerful metaphor for God's absolute sovereignty, illustrating His ability to direct even the hearts of kings like controlled channels of water ([[Proverbs 21:1]]). Thus, *peleg* is not merely a descriptive term for a watercourse but a profound theological symbol of God's intentional, life-sustaining, and sovereign control over all creation and human affairs.
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