### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pᵉlaggâh**, represented by `{{H6390}}`, carries a dual meaning as either a **runlet** or a **division**. Its base definition is "from פָּלַג; a runlet, i.e. gully; division, river." This term, while appearing only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, illustrates how a single word can describe both physical geography and the state of a community.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical text, `{{H6390}}` is used in two distinct contexts. In Job, it describes a literal waterway, where the wicked man "shall not see the **rivers**" of honey and butter, a metaphor for immense prosperity [[Job 20:17]]. In contrast, in the Song of Deborah, the word is used twice to signify figurative rifts within the people of Israel. The text states, "For the **divisions** of Reuben there were great thoughts of heart" [[Judges 5:15]] and "For the **divisions** of Reuben there were great searchings of heart" [[Judges 5:16]], highlighting the tribe's internal conflict and indecisiveness.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the two meanings of `pᵉlaggâh`:
* `{{H5104}}` **nâhâr** (flood, river): This word appears with `pᵉlaggâh` in [[Job 20:17]], referring to **floods** or rivers as part of a landscape of abundance from which the wicked are barred.
* `{{H5158}}` **nachal** (brook, flood, river, stream, valley): Also used in [[Job 20:17]], this term for a **brook** or winter torrent further defines the imagery of flowing water and prosperity.
* `{{H3820}}` **lêb** (heart): The figurative meaning of `pᵉlaggâh` is revealed through its connection to the **heart**. The "divisions" of Reuben directly led to great thoughts and searchings of **heart**, linking tribal disunity to internal conflict [[Judges 5:15-16]].
* `{{H2714}}` **chêqer** (finding out, number, (un-) search(-able, -ed, out, -ing)): Translated as "**searchings**" in [[Judges 5:16]], this term describes the deep deliberation and indecision that resulted from Reuben's internal divisions.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6390}}` is found in its contrasting applications.
* **Blessing and Judgment:** In its literal sense, `pᵉlaggâh` is used to depict the blessings of abundance. To be denied a view of these **rivers** is a form of divine judgment against the wicked [[Job 20:17]].
* **Consequences of Disunity:** The use of `pᵉlaggâh` to describe the "**divisions** of Reuben" serves as a powerful commentary on the dangers of internal strife. Reuben's indecision and lack of unity during a key battle led to scrutiny and introspection, signified by the "great searchings of heart" [[Judges 5:16]].
* **The Divided Heart:** The link between the external "divisions" among the people and the internal "thoughts of heart" `{{H2711}}` is significant. It demonstrates the biblical principle that communal disunity is often a reflection of a divided or unresolved heart.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6390}}` `pᵉlaggâh` is a concise but potent term. It serves as a reminder of God's abundant blessings, pictured as flowing **rivers**, and as a warning about the consequences of human **divisions**. Whether describing a physical runlet or a fractured community, the word ultimately points to the states of blessing or conflict that arise from one's relationship to God and to others.
TRV