(Aramaic) corresponding to פְּלֻגָּה; {a section}; division.
Transliteration:pᵉluggâh
Pronunciation:pel-oog-gaw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term פְּלֻגָּה (pᵉluggâh), Strong's `{{H6392}}`, denotes a "section" or "division." Its core meaning conveys the idea of partitioning or separating a whole into distinct, organized parts. This word is closely related to the Hebrew root פָּלַג (palag), `{{H6385}}`, which means "to divide" or "to split," and its nominal forms. Thus, pᵉluggâh inherently carries the sense of an established, often administrative, separation rather than a chaotic fragmentation. Its semantic range is narrow, specifically referring to organized groups or allocated portions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word פְּלֻגָּה (pᵉluggâh) appears twice in the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament, both instances within the post-exilic books of Ezra and Nehemiah, and both in contexts related to the structured organization of religious personnel.
1. **Ezra 6:18**: "And they set the priests in their divisions (וּפְלֻגָּתְהֹם) and the Levites in their courses (וּמַחְלְקֹתֵיהֶם) for the service of God, which is at Jerusalem; as it is written in the book of Moses."
* Here, pᵉluggâh is used to describe the organized groups of priests. The parallel use of מַחֲלֹקֶת (machaloqet), `{{H4256}}`, for the Levites underscores the administrative and orderly nature of these arrangements. This verse highlights the meticulous re-establishment of Temple service according to Mosaic law after the return from Babylonian exile, emphasizing a return to divine order.
2. **Nehemiah 11:36**: "And of the Levites, some courses (וּמִפְּלֻגּוֹת) were in Judah and some in Benjamin."
* In this context, pᵉluggâh refers to the geographical distribution or established groups of Levites across the territories of Judah and Benjamin. It speaks to the organized settlement and deployment of the Levites, indicating a systematic arrangement for their service and livelihood throughout the land.
In both occurrences, pᵉluggâh signifies a purposeful and ordered division, essential for the efficient and proper functioning of the Temple and the religious life of the community. It is not about discord, but about structure and allocation of duties.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Aramaic פְּלֻגָּה (pᵉluggâh) is directly related to the verbal root פְּלַג (palag), `{{H6385}}`, meaning "to divide" or "to split." This root is found in both Hebrew and Aramaic, indicating a shared linguistic heritage.
Key related terms and concepts include:
* **מַחֲלֹקֶת (machaloqet), `{{H4256}}`**: This Hebrew noun, meaning "division" or "course," is a close semantic parallel and is used synonymously with pᵉluggâh in Ezra 6:18 for the Levites. It reinforces the idea of established groups for service.
* **מִפְלָגָה (miflaga), `{{H4656}}`**: Another Hebrew noun derived from the same root, meaning "division" or "stream," though not used in the specific context of priestly/Levitical divisions.
* **Concepts of Order and Structure**: The use of pᵉluggâh inherently points to the importance of order, administration, and defined roles within the community, especially in the context of sacred worship and service.
* **Temple Service and Organization**: The word is intrinsically linked to the meticulous arrangements for the Temple, reflecting the detailed divine commands for its operation.
### Theological Significance
The consistent use of פְּלֻגָּה (pᵉluggâh) in the post-exilic narratives of Ezra and Nehemiah carries significant theological weight. It underscores the divine emphasis on order and structure in sacred service. God is not a God of confusion but of peace and order ([[1 Corinthians 14:33]]). The re-establishment of these "divisions" for priests and Levites after the exile was a crucial step in restoring covenant faithfulness and proper worship according to the Law of Moses.
This word highlights:
* **Divine Order**: The meticulous organization of the priests and Levites into divisions reflects God's desire for an ordered and disciplined approach to worship and ministry. Each division had its specific duties and times of service, ensuring continuity and proper execution.
* **Stewardship and Responsibility**: The concept of distinct divisions implies a clear allocation of responsibilities. Each section was accountable for its part in the larger system of worship and community life, emphasizing the principle of faithful stewardship over God-given tasks.
* **Restoration of Worship**: For the returning exiles, re-establishing these divisions was a tangible sign of their commitment to rebuilding not just the physical Temple but also the spiritual and administrative framework for proper worship. It signified a return to the covenant relationship with God and the practices He had ordained.
### Summary
פְּלֻגָּה (pᵉluggâh), `{{H6392}}`, is an Aramaic term meaning "division" or "section," rooted in the concept of orderly partitioning. Its two occurrences in the Old Testament, specifically in Ezra 6:18 and Nehemiah 11:36, consistently describe the organized groups of priests and Levites for their sacred service and settlement after the Babylonian exile. This word emphasizes the divine imperative for order, structure, and clear allocation of responsibilities within the community of faith, particularly in the context of Temple worship. It stands as a testament to the post-exilic community's commitment to re-establishing God's ordained system of service, reflecting a return to covenant faithfulness and the meticulous administration required for holy living. The term is closely related to the Hebrew root palag and the synonymous term machaloqet (`{{H4256}}`), further highlighting its meaning of an established, administrative division.
TRV