patronymically from פַּלְטִי; a Paltite or descendant of Palti; Paltite.
Transliteration:Palṭîy
Pronunciation:pal-tee'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term פַּלְטִי (Palṭîy, `{{H6407}}`) functions as a patronymic, signifying "of Palti" or "descendant of Palti." Its semantic range is therefore directly tied to the personal name Palti. The name Palti (and its variant Paltiel, `{{H6406}}`) is derived from the Hebrew verbal root פָּלַט (palat, `{{H6403}}`), which means "to escape," "to deliver," or "to bring forth safely." Consequently, the meaning embedded within "Palṭîy" points to an association with the concept of deliverance, safety, or an individual whose name embodies these ideas ("My deliverance" or "Yahweh is my deliverance").
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term פַּלְטִי (Palṭîy, `{{H6407}}`) appears in the Hebrew Bible primarily in two distinct contexts, referring to individuals or a clan associated with the name Palti:
1. **Palti, son of Raphu:** Mentioned in [[Numbers 13:9]] as the representative from the tribe of Benjamin among the twelve spies sent by Moses to scout the land of Canaan. His inclusion among the tribal leaders underscores his standing and authority within his tribe during the wilderness wanderings. While his personal actions are not detailed, he was part of the delegation that brought back a discouraging report, leading to the Israelites' forty years in the wilderness.
2. **Palti, son of Laish:** Referred to in [[1 Samuel 25:44]] as the man to whom King Saul gave Michal, David's wife, after David had fled from Saul. He is later called Paltiel (פַּלְטִיאֵל, `{{H6406}}`) in [[2 Samuel 3:15]], where David demands Michal's return from him. His deep affection for Michal, evidenced by his weeping as he followed her, highlights a poignant human dimension within the unfolding dynastic struggle between Saul and David.
3. **Helez the Paltite:** This individual is listed among David's elite "Mighty Men" in [[2 Samuel 23:26]] and [[1 Chronicles 11:27]]. In [[1 Chronicles 27:10]], he is identified as "Helez the Pelonite," which many scholars consider a scribal variant or an alternative geographical/clan designation for "Paltite," given the close association of the lists. As one of the thirty mighty men, and specifically a commander of a division for the tenth month in David's administration ([[1 Chronicles 27:10]]), Helez the Paltite was a figure of considerable military prowess and loyalty, contributing significantly to the security and expansion of David's kingdom.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of פַּלְטִי (Palṭîy, `{{H6407}}`) is enriched by examining its linguistic and conceptual relatives:
* **פַּלְטִי (Palti):** The personal name itself, from which the patronymic is derived.
* **פַּלְטִיאֵל (Palṭîʼēl, `{{H6406}}`):** A variant of the name Palti, meaning "My deliverance is God" or "God is my deliverance." This fuller form explicitly connects the name to divine intervention.
* **פָּלַט (palat, `{{H6403}}`):** The foundational verbal root, meaning "to escape," "to deliver," "to save," or "to bring forth safely." This root is key to understanding the underlying significance of the name.
* **פֶּלֶט (pelet, `{{H6404}}`):** A noun derived from the same root, meaning "escape" or "deliverance."
* **Mighty Men of David:** The context of Helez the Paltite places him within this distinguished group of warriors, who were instrumental in David's military successes and the establishment of his kingdom. Their inclusion speaks to their valor, skill, and commitment.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of פַּלְטִי (Palṭîy, `{{H6407}}`) and the individuals bearing this name is primarily rooted in the concept of divine deliverance. The underlying Hebrew root פָּלַט (palat) consistently points to God as the ultimate source of rescue and safety.
* **Divine Deliverance:** The very name "Palti" (and "Paltiel") serves as a theological statement, acknowledging God as the deliverer. This resonates with numerous biblical passages where God is depicted as the one who rescues His people from enemies, oppression, and peril.
* **God's Providence in Human Affairs:** The figures identified as "Paltites" appear in significant moments in Israel's history. Palti the spy, though part of a faithless generation, was involved in the initial exploration of the land God promised to deliver. Palti/Paltiel, Michal's husband, is a poignant figure in the narrative of David's ascent to the throne, highlighting the human cost and divine orchestration in the establishment of the Davidic dynasty. Helez the Paltite, as one of David's mighty men, embodies the strength and loyalty that God used to secure His people and establish His kingdom through David.
* **Faithfulness and Loyalty:** While the spy Palti was part of a group that lacked faith, the other figures associated with the name, particularly Helez the Paltite, exemplify dedication and loyalty, qualities essential for God's purposes to be fulfilled through human agents. The name itself, "deliverance," could be seen as a testament to the divine protection and success granted to those who serve God's chosen king.
### Summary
The Hebrew term פַּלְטִי (Palṭîy, `{{H6407}}`) is a patronymic meaning "descendant of Palti," rooted in the Hebrew word for "deliverance" or "escape." This name appears in the Old Testament in connection with Palti, a spy from the tribe of Benjamin ([[Numbers 13:9]]); Palti, son of Laish, to whom Saul gave Michal ([[1 Samuel 25:44]], [[2 Samuel 3:15]]); and Helez the Paltite, one of David's valiant mighty men ([[2 Samuel 23:26]], [[1 Chronicles 11:27]]). Each instance, whether directly or indirectly, draws upon the foundational meaning of "deliverance," subtly underscoring God's character as the one who saves and protects His people. The individuals bearing this name or title are woven into the fabric of Israel's history, participating in events that collectively attest to God's sovereign hand in bringing about His redemptive purposes.
TRV