### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word Pilṭay (`{{H6408}}`, פִּלְטַי) is a masculine proper noun, serving as an anthroponym. Its base definition indicates it is a variant or form of Palṭiy (`{{H6407}}`, פַּלְטִי). Tracing its etymology further, Palṭiy is derived from the verbal root *palat* (`{{H6403}}`, פָּלַט), which carries the core meaning "to escape," "to deliver," "to slip away," or "to rescue." Therefore, the name Pilṭay inherently conveys the concept of "my deliverance" or "Yahweh is my deliverance," implying divine action in preserving or rescuing. As a proper name, its semantic range is limited to identifying a specific individual, but the underlying root imbues it with profound theological resonance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Pilṭay (`{{H6408}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, within the post-exilic historical book of Nehemiah:
* **[[Nehemiah 12:17]]**: "of Minyamin, of Moadiah, Piltai; of Bilgah, Shammua;"
In this passage, Pilṭay is listed as one of the heads of the priestly houses during the days of Joiakim, the high priest who succeeded his father Jeshua (Nehemiah 12:10). This genealogical record is crucial for establishing the continuity and lineage of the priestly service in the rebuilt Jerusalem after the return from Babylonian exile. Pilṭay's inclusion signifies his role as a prominent figure within the Levitical priesthood, responsible for leading a family line dedicated to temple service. While the text provides no further narrative details about Pilṭay himself, his presence in this list underscores the meticulous record-keeping of the post-exilic community and their emphasis on restoring the divinely ordained order of worship.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related words are those from which Pilṭay (`{{H6408}}`) is derived:
* **Palṭiy (`{{H6407}}`, פַּלְטִי)**: A similar proper name, also meaning "my deliverance," found in [[Numbers 13:9]] (Palti, son of Raphu, a spy from Benjamin) and [[1 Samuel 25:44]] (Palti, son of Laish, to whom Michal was given).
* **Palat (`{{H6403}}`, פָּלַט)**: The verbal root meaning "to escape," "to deliver," "to rescue." This root is frequently used throughout the Old Testament to describe God's saving acts, whether from enemies, death, or various dangers (e.g., [[Psalm 33:19]], [[Psalm 124:7]]).
* **Paltiel (`{{H6409}}`, פַּלְטִיאֵל)**: Another related proper name, meaning "God is my deliverance," found in [[Numbers 34:26]] and [[2 Samuel 3:15]]. This name explicitly includes the divine element *’El*, reinforcing the theological nature of "deliverance."
The concept of "deliverance" (from *palat*) is a pervasive theme in biblical theology. It speaks to God's active intervention on behalf of His people, rescuing them from perilous situations. This deliverance is not merely physical but often carries spiritual implications, pointing to God's faithfulness to His covenant promises.
### Theological Significance
Though Pilṭay (`{{H6408}}`) is an obscure figure, the theological significance of his name and presence in the biblical record is noteworthy. The name "my deliverance" serves as a quiet, yet powerful, testimony to God's providential care. In the context of the return from exile, a period marked by profound national and spiritual restoration, the very existence of individuals bearing names like Pilṭay underscores the conviction that God had indeed "delivered" His people from captivity and was actively rebuilding their lives and institutions.
Pilṭay's inclusion in the priestly lineage in Nehemiah's time highlights the continuity of God's covenant with Israel and the enduring nature of the priesthood. His name, "my deliverance," could be seen as a personal confession of faith by his parents, acknowledging God as the source of their salvation and security, especially in a time when the nation was re-establishing itself under divine guidance. It implicitly points to Yahweh as the ultimate Deliverer, the One who saves, preserves, and restores His chosen people. The name, therefore, is a subtle reminder of divine faithfulness amidst human fragility and historical upheaval.
### Summary
Pilṭay (`{{H6408}}`, פִּלְטַי) is a Hebrew proper name meaning "my deliverance," derived from the root *palat* (`{{H6403}}`), which signifies "to escape" or "to rescue." It appears only once in the biblical text, in [[Nehemiah 12:17]], identifying a head of a priestly house during the post-exilic period. Though a minor figure, his name carries significant theological weight, serving as a personal testimony to God's power to deliver and preserve. In the context of the return from Babylonian exile, Pilṭay's name quietly affirms the divine hand in Israel's restoration, emphasizing God's enduring role as the faithful Deliverer of His covenant people.
TRV