### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Pᵉlâyâh**, represented by `{{H6411}}`, means **"Jah has distinguished"**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. This name identifies three distinct Israelites mentioned in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Pelaiah** `{{H6411}}` is mentioned in three distinct contexts. In the book of Nehemiah, a man named **Pelaiah** is identified among the Levites `{{H3881}}` who were instrumental in helping the people `{{H5971}}` understand `{{H995}}` the law `{{H8451}}` [[Nehemiah 8:7]]. He is also named among their brethren `{{H251}}` alongside figures like Hodijah `{{H1941}}` and Kelita `{{H7042}}` [[Nehemiah 10:10]]. Finally, in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles, another **Pelaiah** is listed as one of the seven `{{H7651}}` sons `{{H1121}}` of Elioenai `{{H454}}` [[1 Chronicles 3:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the roles and relationships of the individuals named **Pelaiah**:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên**: Meaning **a son**, this word establishes lineage. Pelaiah is identified as one of the **sons** of Elioenai [[1 Chronicles 3:24]].
* `{{H3881}}` **Lêvîyîy**: Defined as **a Levite or descendant of Levi**, this term identifies the tribal role of the Pelaiah mentioned in Nehemiah, who served among the **Levites** [[Nehemiah 8:7]].
* `{{H8451}}` **tôwrâh**: This word for **law**, especially the Pentateuch, is central to the work of Pelaiah the Levite, who helped cause the people to understand the **law** [[Nehemiah 8:7]].
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch**: Meaning **a brother**, this word highlights the communal and familial bond of the men listed together, including Pelaiah, in Nehemiah's time [[Nehemiah 10:10]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H6411}}` is tied to its meaning and the scriptural roles of those who carried the name.
* **Divine Distinction:** The name itself, **"Jah has distinguished,"** suggests a person set apart by God for a particular purpose or identity.
* **Instruction in the Law:** Pelaiah the Levite’s role in causing the people `{{H5971}}` to understand `{{H995}}` the law `{{H8451}}` highlights the importance of spiritual teaching and leadership for the community [[Nehemiah 8:7]].
* **Genealogical Continuity:** The inclusion of Pelaiah as a son `{{H1121}}` of Elioenai `{{H454}}` in the chronicles underscores the value placed on preserving lineage and family history within Israel [[1 Chronicles 3:24]].
### Summary
In summary, **Pelaiah** `{{H6411}}` is a Hebrew name whose meaning, **"Jah has distinguished"**, is reflected in the notable contexts where it appears. Although mentioned only three times, the name is associated with key activities in Israel's history: the faithful instruction of God's law `{{H8451}}` to the people [[Nehemiah 8:7]] and the preservation of lineage [[1 Chronicles 3:24]]. The individuals named **Pelaiah** are presented as participants in the spiritual and communal life of Israel.
TRV