from פָּלָה; distinguished; Pallu, an Israelite; Pallu, Phallu.
Transliteration:Pallûwʼ
Pronunciation:pal-loo'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun פַּלּוּא (Pallûwʼ), Strong's number `{{H6396}}`, is derived from the verbal root פָּלָה (palah), Strong's number `{{H6395}}`. This root carries the primary sense of "to distinguish," "to separate," or "to be wonderful/marvelous." Consequently, the name Pallu signifies "distinguished" or "separated." It implies a state of being set apart or made prominent, reflecting an inherent quality or a divinely ordained status. While primarily a personal name, its etymological root imbues it with a semantic range that touches upon concepts of uniqueness and divine selection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Pallu (פַּלּוּא) consistently appears in the biblical text as the name of a son of Reuben, the firstborn of Jacob. His lineage is recorded in key genealogical passages, establishing him as an early patriarch within one of the twelve tribes of Israel.
* In [[Genesis 46:9]], Pallu is listed among the seventy souls of the house of Jacob who came to Egypt, specifically as one of the sons of Reuben.
* [[Exodus 6:14]] reiterates his position as a son of Reuben within the priestly lineage, linking him to the family of Levi, though he himself is of Reuben.
* The census in [[Numbers 26:5]] identifies Pallu as the progenitor of one of the four clans of Reuben, explicitly stating, "of Pallu, the family of the Palluites." This highlights his significance as a foundational figure for a distinct family unit within the tribe.
* Finally, [[1 Chronicles 5:3]] includes Pallu in the genealogical record of Reuben's descendants, confirming his place in the tribal history.
In each instance, Pallu is presented as a patriarchal figure, a direct ancestor from whom a significant segment of the tribe of Reuben descended. His appearances are always within the context of genealogical lists, underscoring his role in the establishment and identification of Israelite families. The name, therefore, serves as an identifier for a "distinguished" lineage within the broader covenant community.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root verb פָּלָה (palah), Strong's number `{{H6395}}`, from which Pallu is derived. This root's meaning of "to distinguish" or "to separate" is crucial for understanding the nuances of the name.
* In [[Exodus 8:22]], the Lord declares, "I will distinguish (וְהִפְלֵיתִי) between My people and your people," demonstrating God's sovereign act of setting apart.
* Similarly, [[Exodus 11:7]] states, "that you may know that the Lord makes a distinction (יַפְלֶה) between Egypt and Israel."
* The concept extends to God's marvelous works, as seen in [[Psalm 139:14]], "I am fearfully and wonderfully made (נִפְלֵיתִי)."
Other related concepts include:
* **Chosenness/Election:** The idea of being "distinguished" or "separated" resonates deeply with Israel's identity as God's chosen people ([[Deuteronomy 7:6]]).
* **Holiness (קֹדֶשׁ, qodesh, `{{H6944}}`):** To be holy is to be set apart for God's purposes, a theological parallel to being distinguished.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** God's ability to make distinctions, whether between nations, individuals, or the clean and unclean, underscores His absolute authority.
### Theological Significance
While Pallu himself is not a figure whose actions are narrated, the theological significance of his name, "Distinguished," is profound. It subtly echoes a foundational truth about God's relationship with His people. God is the one who "distinguishes" and "separates."
1. **Divine Election:** The name Pallu, meaning "distinguished," can be seen as a microcosm of God's election of Israel. Just as Pallu was a "distinguished" ancestor, so Israel was "distinguished" from all other nations by God's choice and covenant love ([[Deuteronomy 4:7-8]]).
2. **Identity in Distinction:** Israel's identity was intrinsically linked to its distinctiveness, set apart by divine law, covenant, and presence. The name Pallu, even in a genealogical context, serves as a reminder of this unique status.
3. **God's Purposeful Separation:** The very act of naming often carried prophetic or theological weight in ancient Israel. The name "Distinguished" may have served as a perpetual reminder within the tribe of Reuben, and by extension, all Israel, that their very existence was a result of God's purposeful and distinguishing work. It speaks to a God who actively separates and sets apart for His own glory and redemptive purposes.
### Summary
פַּלּוּא (Pallûwʼ), Strong's number `{{H6396}}`, is a Hebrew proper noun meaning "distinguished" or "separated," derived from the root פָּלָה (palah), `{{H6395}}`. It consistently identifies a son of Reuben and the progenitor of the Palluite family, appearing in key genealogical lists such as [[Genesis 46:9]] and [[Numbers 26:5]]. While the individual Pallu's actions are not detailed, the theological significance of his name is considerable. It subtly reflects the broader biblical theme of divine election and the concept of God "distinguishing" or "setting apart" His people Israel for a unique covenant relationship. The name serves as a quiet testimony to God's sovereign act of making distinctions, underscoring Israel's identity as a people uniquely chosen and set apart by the Lord.
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