The Hebrew word Palṭîy, represented by H6406, means delivered. It is a proper name, appearing as both Palti and Phalti, and is found 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible. The name identifies two distinct Israelites who appear in separate and significant moments in the Old Testament narrative.
The two individuals named Palṭîy are recorded in very different contexts. The first mention is in the book of Numbers, where Palti is identified as the son of Raphu, chosen to represent the tribe of Benjamin as one of the twelve spies sent into Canaan Numbers 13:9. The second appearance is in the historical narrative of Saul and David, where Saul had given his daughter Michal, David's wife, to a man named Phalti the son of Laish 1 Samuel 25:44.
Several related words provide a fuller context for the use of Palṭîy:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word is used in both instances to establish the lineage of the individuals named Palṭîy. It identifies Palti as the "son of Raphu" and Phalti as the "son of Laish" (Numbers 13:9, 1 Samuel 25:44).
- H4324 Mîykâl (Michal): As Saul's daughter, she is a central figure in the narrative involving Phalti. Saul gave her to Phalti after she was already David's wife 1 Samuel 25:44.
- H802 ʼishshâh (wife): This term is crucial as it defines Michal's relationship to David, highlighting the gravity of Saul's decision to give David's wife to another man 1 Samuel 25:44.
- H5414 nâthan (to give): This verb describes the action taken by Saul, who had given his daughter Michal to Phalti in a move of political and personal consequence against David 1 Samuel 25:44.
While a proper name, the contexts in which Palṭîy appears are part of larger biblical themes.
- Tribal Representation: Palti's role as a spy for the tribe of Benjamin underscores the importance of tribal identity and responsibility in the early history of Israel. He was part of a critical mission that would determine the nation's future Numbers 13:9.
- Royal Conflict: Phalti is positioned as an instrument in the conflict between King Saul and David. By receiving David's wife Michal, he becomes a part of Saul's effort to sever David's ties to the royal family and undermine his legitimacy 1 Samuel 25:44.
In summary, Palṭîy H6406 is the name of two different men whose stories, though brief, are embedded in pivotal moments of Israel's history. One represents his tribe on a mission of national consequence, while the other is caught in the political turmoil between Israel's first two kings. These two occurrences demonstrate how a single name can mark individuals involved in both the foundational reconnaissance of the promised land and the intense personal dramas of the monarchy.
TRV