from פֶּלַח; slicing; Pilcha, an Israelite; Pilcha.
Transliteration:Pilchâʼ
Pronunciation:pil-khaw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term פִּלְחָא (Pilchâʼ), Strong's number `{{H6401}}`, functions primarily as a proper noun, identifying a specific individual in the biblical record. Its base definition indicates a derivation from the root פֶּלַח (pelach), Strong's number `{{H6400}}`, which carries the meaning of "slicing," "a slice," or "a piece." Thus, the name Pilcha could etymologically suggest concepts related to division, precision, or perhaps a part/portion. However, as a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to its role as an identifier rather than a descriptive adjective or verb. The etymological meaning of proper names often reflects a hope, a characteristic, or a circumstance at the time of birth, but does not typically imbue the person with the direct semantic properties of the root word in later life. In this case, Pilcha is simply the name of an Israelite.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Pilcha (פִּלְחָא) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Nehemiah.
* **[[Nehemiah 10:24]]**: "Pilcha, Shobek, Rehum, Hashabnah."
In this context, Pilcha is listed among the heads of the people (or their representatives) who sealed the solemn covenant made in the days of Nehemiah. This covenant was a pivotal moment in post-exilic Judah, where the community committed themselves anew to the Law of Moses, separating themselves from foreign customs and pledging to uphold the temple service, tithes, and Sabbath observances. Pilcha's inclusion in this list signifies his participation and affirmation of this national commitment. While his specific role beyond being a signatory is not detailed, his presence indicates that he was a recognized figure, likely a family head or a leader within the community, whose endorsement was considered significant for the validity and authority of the covenant. His name is embedded within a list of individuals who collectively represented the renewed dedication of the Israelite people to God's commands.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for Pilcha (פִּלְחָא, `{{H6401}}`) is its root word, פֶּלַח (pelach, `{{H6400}}`). This root appears in other contexts, often referring to a "slice" or "piece" of something, such as a piece of fruit or a portion. For example, in [[Judges 5:25]], the word is used in the phrase "a bowl of nobles" or "a dish for nobles," where the sense might be a "slice" or "portion" of food. The connection to "slicing" could abstractly relate to precision or division.
Beyond the direct linguistic root, Pilcha's significance is tied to broader biblical concepts:
* **Covenant Renewal**: The act of sealing the covenant in Nehemiah 10 is a central theme, emphasizing the corporate commitment of Israel to Yahweh.
* **Community and Leadership**: Pilcha is part of a collective of leaders, highlighting the importance of communal responsibility and the role of individuals in shaping national identity and spiritual direction.
* **Faithfulness and Obedience**: The covenant itself was a pledge of obedience to God's Law, representing a turning point for the returned exiles to live in accordance with divine statutes.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, the theological significance of Pilcha (פִּלְחָא, `{{H6401}}`) is not found in a deep semantic exploration of the name itself, but rather in the historical and redemptive-historical context in which the individual appears. Pilcha's inclusion in the list of those who sealed the covenant in Nehemiah's time underscores several crucial theological points:
1. **Corporate Responsibility and Individual Accountability**: The covenant in Nehemiah 10 was a communal act, yet it required individual affirmation. Pilcha's name stands as a testament to the fact that the renewal of God's people was not a mere top-down decree but involved the active consent and commitment of its members, including those who might otherwise be considered minor figures. Every individual's pledge contributed to the collective faithfulness of the nation.
2. **The Enduring Nature of God's Covenant with Israel**: The act of sealing the covenant was a re-affirmation of the Mosaic covenant, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His promises even after Israel's exile, and the people's renewed commitment to their part of the covenant relationship. Pilcha participated in this vital moment of re-establishing the covenant foundation.
3. **The Importance of Leadership in Spiritual Renewal**: While Pilcha's specific leadership role is not detailed, his position among those who sealed the document suggests he was a recognized figure. This highlights the critical role of leaders in guiding a community towards spiritual obedience and commitment to God's Word.
4. **The "Lesser" Figures in God's Plan**: Pilcha is not a prominent figure like Nehemiah or Ezra, yet his name is preserved in the sacred text. This subtly reminds us that God utilizes and records the participation of many individuals, not just the most famous, in the unfolding of His redemptive plan. Every act of obedience, even by those whose stories are brief, contributes to the larger narrative of God's work.
### Summary
Pilcha (פִּלְחָא, `{{H6401}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun, identifying an Israelite who participated in the solemn covenant renewal during the time of Nehemiah. Derived from the root meaning "slicing" or "a slice" (פֶּלַח, `{{H6400}}`), the name's etymology offers a subtle background, though its primary significance lies in the individual's historical role. Pilcha is listed in [[Nehemiah 10:24]] among the leaders who affixed their seal to the covenant, signifying his personal and corporate commitment to upholding God's Law and the re-establishment of the nation's identity under Yahweh. His brief mention underscores the theological principles of individual accountability within corporate responsibility, the enduring nature of God's covenant, and the importance of leadership and widespread participation in moments of spiritual renewal in biblical history.
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