### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun H6391 (pᵉluggâh) derives from the verbal root H6385 (pālag), which signifies "to divide, split, or distribute." As a noun, pᵉluggâh carries the core meaning of "a division," "a section," or "a class." Its semantic range is tightly focused on the concept of an organized partitioning, specifically of people into distinct groups or courses for a particular function or purpose. It implies an orderly arrangement, often with a rotational aspect, rather than a chaotic or arbitrary fragmentation. In its biblical usage, it consistently refers to structured administrative or functional units, particularly within the context of temple service.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term pᵉluggâh appears exclusively in the historical books of Chronicles and Nehemiah, underscoring its significance in describing the organized structures of the Israelite community, especially in the post-exilic period's emphasis on re-establishing temple worship and civic order.
* In [[1 Chronicles 24:1]], pᵉluggâh refers to the "divisions" of the sons of Aaron, established by David for the systematic and rotational performance of priestly duties. This highlights the early establishment of an orderly system for sacred service.
* Similarly, [[1 Chronicles 26:1]] speaks of the "divisions" of the gatekeepers, demonstrating that the principle of organized service extended beyond the priests to other temple functionaries. [[1 Chronicles 27:1]] further broadens the scope, mentioning the "divisions" of those who served the king in various capacities, indicating a pervasive administrative structure.
* [[2 Chronicles 8:14]] notes Solomon's adherence to David's ordinance in establishing the "divisions" of priests and Levites for their service, reinforcing the continuity and importance of this organizational principle across generations.
* In [[2 Chronicles 31:15]] and [[2 Chronicles 31:17]], the term denotes the "divisions" of priests and Levites responsible for their respective duties and for the equitable distribution of provisions. This illustrates both the assignment of specific tasks and the logistical support for those serving.
* [[Nehemiah 11:36]] refers to the "divisions" of the Levites in Judah and Benjamin, indicating their geographical distribution and assigned roles within the restored community.
* Finally, [[Nehemiah 12:47]] states that all Israel gave portions for the singers and gatekeepers, "each day's portion for its day," implying an orderly system of "divisions" or courses for service and corresponding support.
Across these occurrences, pᵉluggâh consistently portrays an intentional, structured partitioning designed for the efficient and orderly performance of duties, particularly within the sacred sphere of worship and communal life.
### Related Words & Concepts
The foundational linguistic connection for H6391 (pᵉluggâh) is its root verb H6385 (pālag), meaning "to divide, split, or separate." This root directly informs the noun's sense of an organized partition.
Another closely related Hebrew term is H4256 (maḥlāqet), which also translates as "division" or "course." While pᵉluggâh emphasizes the *act* or *result* of dividing into sections, maḥlāqet often refers to the *group* or *course* itself. Both terms are used interchangeably in contexts of priestly and Levitical service (e.g., compare pᵉluggâh in [[1 Chronicles 24:1]] with maḥlāqet in [[1 Chronicles 23:6]]). The conceptual overlap highlights the systematic nature of temple administration.
Broader concepts associated with pᵉluggâh include order (seder), administration (pakid), and service (avodah). These terms collectively contribute to the understanding of the divinely ordained system of worship and communal life in ancient Israel, where structure and organization were paramount.
### Theological Significance
The consistent use of pᵉluggâh in the biblical text reveals a profound theological principle: God is a God of order, not of chaos. The meticulous organization of the priests, Levites, singers, and gatekeepers into distinct "divisions" reflects a divine expectation for worship and service to be conducted with precision, regularity, and accountability. This divinely inspired structure ensured that sacred duties were performed faithfully and continuously, preventing neglect or arbitrary service.
In the post-exilic context of Chronicles and Nehemiah, the re-establishment of these divisions was crucial for restoring Israel's spiritual life and communal identity. It signified a return to the covenantal order and a renewed commitment to the proper functioning of the temple and its associated services. This systematic approach underscores the importance of faithful stewardship of responsibilities within the community of faith, where each "division" contributes to the whole, ensuring the smooth operation of divine ordinances. Furthermore, the provision made for these divisions (e.g., [[2 Chronicles 31:15-17]]; [[Nehemiah 12:47]]) highlights God's care for those who serve Him, ensuring their sustenance as they fulfill their assigned roles. The concept of pᵉluggâh thus speaks to the beauty of divine order, the necessity of human faithfulness in service, and the communal nature of worship.
### Summary
H6391 (pᵉluggâh) denotes an "organized division" or "section," primarily referring to the structured courses of priests, Levites, and other temple functionaries established for orderly service in ancient Israel. Rooted in the verb H6385 (pālag) ("to divide"), its usage in Chronicles and Nehemiah emphasizes the meticulous organization of sacred duties and communal life. Theologically, pᵉluggâh highlights God's demand for order in worship and service, the importance of faithful stewardship, and the communal commitment to maintaining divine ordinances for the flourishing of the covenant people.
TRV