פְּלָיָה

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.