### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pelek**, represented by `{{H6418}}`, holds a dual meaning rooted in the concept of a circuit or something round. Based on an unused root meaning to be round, it is used to signify a "district" or "circuit," and also a "spindle," "crutch," or "staff." It appears 10 times across 9 unique verses, illustrating its application in both administrative and metaphorical contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6418}}` is most prominently used to denote administrative districts during the rebuilding of Jerusalem's wall. In the book of Nehemiah, various leaders are described as rulers over a specific **part** (pelek) or half-part of a region, such as Jerusalem [[Nehemiah 3:9]], Bethhaccerem [[Nehemiah 3:14]], or Keilah [[Nehemiah 3:17]]. In a different context, the word signifies an instrument of labor; the virtuous woman of Proverbs "layeth her hands to the spindle" and holds the **distaff** (pelek) [[Proverbs 31:19]]. Conversely, it is used in a curse upon the house of Joab, wishing that it never be without one who "leaneth on a **staff**" [[2 Samuel 3:29]], implying weakness or infirmity.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the primary administrative use of `{{H6418}}`:
* `{{H8269}}` **sar**: This word for "ruler" or "prince" is consistently paired with **pelek** in the Nehemiah passages. A **sar** is the one who governs a **pelek**, as seen in the title, "the **ruler** of the half part of Keilah" [[Nehemiah 3:17]]. This establishes the role of **pelek** as a defined jurisdiction.
* `{{H2677}}` **chêtsîy**: Meaning "half" or "middle," this term is frequently used to specify the size of the district. The phrase "the half **part**" (chêtsîy pelek) appears multiple times, designating the specific administrative area under a ruler's responsibility ([[Nehemiah 3:16]], 18).
### Theological Significance
The thematic significance of `{{H6418}}` is drawn from its distinct applications.
* **Civic Order and Responsibility:** The repeated use in Nehemiah 3 highlights the theme of organized, communal effort. The division of labor by district, or **pelek**, was essential for the successful and orderly rebuilding of the wall, showing a principle of shared, defined responsibility in a national project [[Nehemiah 3:12]].
* **Symbol of Industry:** In Proverbs, the **distaff** (pelek) is a symbol of diligence, productivity, and virtuous labor. It represents the value of skillful and purposeful work within the household [[Proverbs 31:19]].
* **Symbol of Infirmity:** In stark contrast, the **staff** (pelek) in [[2 Samuel 3:29]] represents a curse of physical dependence and weakness. It is used to describe someone who cannot support themselves, signifying a state of helplessness and affliction.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6418}}` is a versatile word whose meaning is heavily dependent on its context. While it most often functions as an administrative term for a "district" or "part" in Nehemiah, underscoring the importance of order and delegated authority, its other uses provide a powerful contrast. It can represent either the tool of a productive worker or the crutch of an enfeebled person, demonstrating how a single Hebrew term can convey concepts ranging from civic organization and diligent labor to a curse of physical weakness.
TRV