### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Pallûwʼ**, represented by `{{H6396}}`, means **distinguished**. It is used as the proper name for an Israelite, with an alternate spelling of **Phallu**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses**, exclusively within genealogical lists that establish the lineage of the tribes of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Pallu is consistently identified as a **son** `{{H1121}}` of **Reuben** `{{H7205}}`, the **firstborn** `{{H1060}}` of **Israel** `{{H3478}}`. His name appears in the genealogical records of Genesis, Exodus, and 1 Chronicles, solidifying his position within the patriarchal line ([[Genesis 46:9]], [[1 Chronicles 5:3]]). He is listed as one of "the heads{H7218} of their fathers{H1}' houses{H1004}" and part of the **families** `{{H4940}}` of Reuben [[Exodus 6:14]]. The census in Numbers notes that Pallu was the father of **Eliab** `{{H446}}` and the progenitor of the **family** `{{H4940}}` of the **Palluites** `{{H6384}}` ([[Numbers 26:5]], [[Numbers 26:8]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify Pallu's place within the structure of Israel:
* `{{H7205}}` **Rᵉʼûwbên** (Reuben): This is the name of Pallu's father, who is identified as the **firstborn** `{{H1060}}` of **Israel** `{{H3478}}` ([[Exodus 6:14]], [[1 Chronicles 5:3]]).
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word defines Pallu's relationship to Reuben and is described as being a "builder of the family name." The term is used to list the **sons** `{{H1121}}` of Reuben and the **sons** `{{H1121}}` of Pallu ([[Genesis 46:9]], [[Numbers 26:8]]).
* `{{H6384}}` **Palluʼîy** (Palluites): This patronymic term identifies the "descendants of Pallu." It is used to name the **family** `{{H4940}}` that came from him, showing his lasting lineage within the tribe of Reuben [[Numbers 26:5]].
* `{{H4940}}` **mishpâchâh** (family): This word describes a circle of relatives or a clan. It is used to designate both the larger **families** `{{H4940}}` of Reuben and the specific **family** `{{H4940}}` of the Palluites that descended from Pallu ([[Exodus 6:14]], [[Numbers 26:5]]).
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H6396}}` is rooted in its role within the biblical genealogies, which establish order and identity for the nation of Israel.
* **Tribal Lineage:** Pallu's primary importance is as a direct descendant of Jacob through Reuben, the **firstborn** `{{H1060}}`. His inclusion in these lists is crucial for tracing the lineage of the tribe of Reuben ([[Genesis 46:9]], [[1 Chronicles 5:3]]).
* **Founder of a Clan:** He is not merely an individual in a list but the founder of a specific clan. The scriptures explicitly name "the family of the Palluites," which establishes his role as a progenitor whose descendants formed a recognized subdivision within Israel [[Numbers 26:5]].
* **Part of Israel's Structure:** Pallu is named among "the heads of their fathers' houses," a phrase that denotes leadership and foundational status within the patriarchal system of the tribes [[Exodus 6:14]].
### Summary
In summary, **Pallûwʼ** `{{H6396}}` is the name of a key genealogical figure, a son of Reuben. While not a central character in major narrative events, his repeated mention in the census and lineage records of Genesis, Exodus, Numbers, and 1 Chronicles underscores the biblical emphasis on heritage and tribal structure. As the father of Eliab and the founder of the Palluites, his name is preserved as a vital link in the chain of Israel's national identity.
TRV