### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pᵉlîylîy**, represented by `{{H6416}}`, is a specific term for a **judge** or something **judicial**. Its rarity is notable, as it appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, highlighting its very specific application within scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H6416}}` is found in the book of Job. In his defense of his own integrity, Job declares that certain actions would be an "iniquity to be punished by the **judge**" [[Job 31:28]]. The context reveals that the specific sin is the denial of "the God that is above," making this term central to the concept of judicial punishment for spiritual transgressions. The word points to a recognized authority responsible for adjudicating severe moral and religious offenses.
### Related Words & Concepts
The verse where `{{H6416}}` appears contains several key related words that define the nature of the offense:
* `{{H5771}}` **ʻâvôn** (iniquity): This identifies the sin as a form of perversity or moral evil, which is what necessitates action from the **judge**. It is described as something that can be pardoned by God [[Micah 7:18]] or punished [[Ezekiel 18:20]].
* `{{H3584}}` **kâchash** (denied): This specifies the action of being untrue to God. It can mean to lie, deal falsely, or disown, as seen when the prophet Hosea lists "lying" as a transgression against the LORD [[Hosea 4:2]].
* `{{H410}}` **ʼêl** (God): This identifies the one who is denied—the mighty and supreme God. The term emphasizes strength and power, as seen in the description of "The mighty **God**" in [[Isaiah 9:6]].
* `{{H4605}}` **maʻal** (above): This word qualifies God's position, establishing His supreme authority over all things. Its usage in phrases like "heaven **above**" [[Exodus 20:4]] reinforces the concept of God's exalted status.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6416}}` is centered on the principle of divine justice.
* **Judicial Consequence:** The term establishes that denying God is not merely a personal failing but an **iniquity** `{{H5771}}` with formal judicial consequences, punishable by a **judge**.
* **Recognized Authority:** It implies a system of justice where specific individuals or roles are tasked with punishing profound spiritual crimes. Job’s statement suggests this was a commonly understood principle.
* **The Supremacy of God:** The offense is grave precisely because it is a denial `{{H3584}}` of "the **God** `{{H410}}` that is **above** `{{H4605}}`." The act challenges divine sovereignty, thus warranting a judicial response.
### Summary
In summary, though used only once, `{{H6416}}` provides a critical insight into the biblical understanding of justice. The term **pᵉlîylîy** moves beyond a general concept of judgment to a specific judicial role responsible for punishing foundational sins like the denial of God. It directly links the iniquity of disowning God's supreme authority to a tangible, legal consequence, illustrating a framework where spiritual faithfulness is a matter of law and order.
TRV