### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pâlîyṭ**, represented by `{{H6412}}`, refers to a **refugee** or **fugitive**. Derived from the root `pâlaṭ` `{{H6403}}`, meaning to escape or deliver, this term appears 21 times across 21 unique verses. It specifically describes someone who has escaped a catastrophe, often carrying news or representing the survival of a people after judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H6412}}` is used to identify survivors of significant events. In the earliest account, one who **had escaped** brings news to Abram of the battle of the kings [[Genesis 14:13]]. The term frequently appears in the prophets to describe those who survive judgment. For example, a messenger who **had escaped** from Jerusalem arrives to inform Ezekiel that the city has been smitten [[Ezekiel 33:21]]. The word can also carry a negative connotation, as when the Gileadites are taunted as **fugitives** of Ephraim [[Judges 12:4]]. However, it is also used to describe those who are sent by God with a purpose, as when he sends those that **escape** to the nations to declare His glory [[Isaiah 66:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context of escape and survival:
* `{{H6403}}` **pâlaṭ** (to slip out, i.e. escape; causatively, to deliver): This is the root verb from which `pâlîyṭ` is derived, emphasizing the act of deliverance. The Lord is described as a **deliverer** [[Psalms 18:2]].
* `{{H4422}}` **mâlaṭ** (to be smooth, i.e. (by implication) to escape; causatively, to release or rescue): This word is often used in parallel with the idea of a fugitive. Scripture warns that in certain judgments, he that **escapeth** `{{H6412}}` of them shall not **be delivered** `{{H4422}}` [[Amos 9:1]].
* `{{H8300}}` **sârîyd** (a survivor; alive, left, remain(-ing), remnant, rest): This term denotes a survivor or remnant, a concept closely tied to the `pâlîyṭ`. In contexts of total destruction, none were left to **remain** `{{H8300}}` or **escape** `{{H6412}}` [[Joshua 8:22]].
* `{{H5127}}` **nûwç** (to flit, i.e. vanish away; escape; flee): This word describes the act of fleeing. It is used to show the futility of trying to escape God's judgment, where he that **fleeth** `{{H5127}}` will not get away [[Amos 9:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6412}}` is significant, highlighting themes of judgment, remnant, and mission.
* **A Sign of Judgment:** The arrival of one who has **escaped** `{{H6412}}` often serves as a living confirmation of divine judgment, bringing news of destruction to those who were not present ([[Ezekiel 33:21]], [[Ezekiel 24:26]]).
* **The Preserved Remnant:** Escape is not always by human effort alone. God promises to leave a remnant, allowing some to **escape** the sword among the nations [[Ezekiel 6:8]]. These survivors are preserved for a divine purpose, such as remembering God and loathing their past sins [[Ezekiel 6:9]].
* **Futility of Unsanctioned Escape:** While some are preserved, others are warned that there is no escape from God's wrath. For those who stubbornly go to Egypt, the promise is that none shall **escape** from the evil God will bring ([[Jeremiah 42:17]], [[Jeremiah 44:14]]).
* **Missionary Purpose:** The concept of the escaped one is elevated from a mere survivor to a divine messenger in Isaiah, where those that **escape** are sent to the nations to declare God's glory among those who have never heard of Him [[Isaiah 66:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6412}}` is a specific term that defines more than just a person on the run. A **pâlîyṭ** is a survivor of a great calamity, acting as a messenger, a symbol of judgment, or a member of a divinely appointed remnant. The word captures the critical intersection of divine sovereignty and human experience, where escaping can mean either being preserved for God's purpose or facing the futility of fleeing from His justice.
TRV