or פְּרִידָא; from פָּרַד; dispersion; Peruda or Perida, one of 'Solomon's servants'; Perida, Peruda.
Transliteration:Pᵉrûwdâʼ
Pronunciation:per-oo-daw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word *Pᵉrûwdâʼ* (פְּרוּדָא, `{{H6514}}`), also appearing as *Pᵉrîdâʼ* (פְּרִידָא), is a proper noun derived from the verbal root *pārad* (פָּרַד, `{{H6504}}`). This root carries the core meaning of "to divide, separate, disperse, or scatter." Therefore, the name *Pᵉrûwdâʼ* inherently conveys the idea of "dispersion" or "separation." While the word itself functions as a personal or family name in the biblical text, its etymological root suggests a semantic background related to being scattered or set apart. This could imply a historical context for the individual or family, perhaps associated with exile, migration, or a distinct status within the community.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
*Pᵉrûwdâʼ* appears in two parallel passages within the post-exilic historical books, both times within lists of those who returned from the Babylonian captivity:
* In [[Ezra 2:55]], the text records: "The children of Solomon's servants: the children of Soṭai, the children of Sophereth, the children of Peruda." Here, *Pᵉrûwdâʼ* is identified as the progenitor or head of one of the family groups among "Solomon's servants" (בְּנֵי עַבְדֵי שְׁלֹמֹה).
* The parallel account in [[Nehemiah 7:57]] lists: "The children of Solomon's servants: the children of Soṭai, the children of Sophereth, the children of Perida." This verse uses the alternate spelling *Pᵉrîdâʼ*, confirming its identity with *Pᵉrûwdâʼ*.
These individuals, referred to as "Solomon's servants," were descendants of non-Israelite personnel who had been dedicated to temple service or royal administration by King Solomon. Their inclusion in the registers of returnees underscores the comprehensive nature of the post-exilic community, which encompassed not only the priestly, Levitical, and tribal lineages but also those who served in various auxiliary roles. Their return signifies a divinely orchestrated restoration that brought together all legitimate components of the covenant community.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for *Pᵉrûwdâʼ* is its root verb *pārad* (פָּרַד, `{{H6504}}`). This verb is widely used in the Hebrew Bible to describe various forms of separation:
* Geographical separation, such as the division of lands or peoples ([[Genesis 10:5]], [[Genesis 13:9]]).
* The separation of individuals or groups from one another ([[Genesis 30:40]], [[Deuteronomy 32:8]]).
* Figurative separation, such as the isolation of a person ([[Proverbs 18:1]]).
The etymological link to "dispersion" resonates with broader biblical themes of exile and diaspora, where the scattering of God's people was a consequence of covenant disobedience. However, the return of *Pᵉrûwdâʼ*'s descendants signifies the reversal of this scattering.
Furthermore, *Pᵉrûwdâʼ* is contextually related to other groups of temple servants, such as the Nethinim (נְתִינִים, `{{H5411}}`), who were also non-Israelite individuals dedicated to the service of the sanctuary. Both "Solomon's servants" and the Nethinim played vital, though often less prominent, roles in the functioning of the temple and the broader community life in ancient Israel.
### Theological Significance
While *Pᵉrûwdâʼ* itself is a proper name and does not directly convey theological doctrine, its presence in the biblical record carries significant theological implications. The inclusion of "Solomon's servants," including the family of *Pᵉrûwdâʼ*, in the lists of those returning from exile highlights the comprehensive scope of God's redemptive and restorative work. It demonstrates that the divine plan for rebuilding the community in Judah extended beyond the prominent Israelite tribes to encompass all who had a legitimate place within the covenant structure, regardless of their ethnic origin or specific service role.
The name's etymological meaning of "dispersion" or "separation" takes on a poignant theological resonance in the context of the return from exile. It serves as a subtle reminder of the scattered state from which God gathered His people. Their return is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to bring back those who were dispersed, transforming a state of separation into one of reunion and restoration (cf. [[Jeremiah 31:10]], [[Ezekiel 34:12]]). This act of gathering underscores the divine power to reverse the consequences of sin and judgment.
Moreover, the continuity of "Solomon's servants" across generations, even through the cataclysm of exile, speaks to the enduring nature of divine purpose and the diverse elements that contribute to the life and worship of God's people. It illustrates the inclusive character of God's community, where various functions and backgrounds are integrated into a unified body serving the Lord.
### Summary
*Pᵉrûwdâʼ* (H6514), also spelled *Pᵉrîdâʼ*, is a proper noun derived from the Hebrew root *pārad* (`{{H6504}}`), signifying "dispersion" or "separation." This name appears in [[Ezra 2:55]] and [[Nehemiah 7:57]], identifying a family group among "Solomon's servants" who returned from the Babylonian exile. The inclusion of *Pᵉrûwdâʼ*'s descendants in the post-exilic census underscores the comprehensive and inclusive nature of God's restoration, demonstrating His faithfulness in gathering all legitimate components of His people. The name itself, meaning "dispersion," ironically highlights the divine act of reversing the scattered state of exile, bringing about reunion and reinforcing the continuity of service to God's house within the restored community.
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