### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pᵉlônîy**, represented by `{{H6423}}`, is a term used to mean **such a one, i.e. a specified person; such**. It is a rare word, appearing just **3 times** in **3 unique verses** of the Old Testament. Its function is to refer to a person or place that is specific and known to the speaker but is intentionally left unnamed in the narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6423}}` consistently appears in situations requiring secrecy or discretion. It is used to mask the location of a military camp when the king of Syria plots against Israel, saying, "In **such** and **such** a place shall be my camp" [[2 Kings 6:8]]. Similarly, David uses the term when describing a covert mission, telling Ahimelech the priest that his servants were appointed "to **such** and **such** a place" [[1 Samuel 21:2]]. The word can also refer to a person, as when Boaz calls out to an unnamed kinsman at the city gate, "Ho, **such** a one! turn aside, sit down here" [[Ruth 4:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H6423}}` is sharpened by a word that always accompanies it:
* `{{H492}}` **ʼalmônîy**: Defined as **some one (i.e. so and so, without giving the name of the person or place); one, and such**, this word comes from a root sense of concealment. In all three instances where `{{H6423}}` is found, `{{H492}}` appears immediately after it, forming the pair "such and such" or "such a one" to powerfully convey the idea of a deliberately unspecified identity ([[2 Kings 6:8]], [[Ruth 4:1]], [[1 Samuel 21:2]]).
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H6423}}` is found in its narrative function rather than in deep theological concepts. It serves as a clear marker of intentional ambiguity.
* **Concealment for Strategy:** The term is used to highlight moments of military or personal secrecy. It shows characters like the Syrian king and David deliberately hiding information as part of a plan ([[2 Kings 6:8]], [[1 Samuel 21:2]]).
* **Public Discretion:** In the case of Boaz and the kinsman, using **pᵉlônîy** allows for a public summons without revealing a name, maintaining a level of discretion before initiating a sensitive public matter [[Ruth 4:1]].
* **Focus on the Act:** By leaving a person or place unnamed, the narrative directs the reader's attention away from the "who" or "where" and toward the significance of the action being undertaken.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6423}}` **pᵉlônîy** is a precise tool for indicating a specific but unnamed subject. While rare, its usage is consistent and clear. Always paired with `{{H492}}`, it functions as a literary device to signal secrecy, discretion, or a shift in narrative focus. It demonstrates how scripture can use specific language to intentionally withhold information, thereby emphasizing the strategic or sensitive nature of a given situation.
TRV