### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Pᵉrûwdâʼ**, represented by `{{H6514}}`, is a proper name meaning **dispersion**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The name, which can also be rendered as Perida, identifies one of the heads of a family listed among "Solomon's servants."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6514}}` is used exclusively within genealogical lists that document the families returning to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Both occurrences are identical in context, listing the descendants of those who had served King Solomon centuries earlier. Peruda is named as the progenitor of a family group, appearing alongside the children of Sotai and Sophereth ([[Ezra 2:55]]; [[Nehemiah 7:57]]). This placement highlights the importance of tracking lineage as the community of Israel was re-established.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide the context for understanding Peruda's identity:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word precedes the name in both instances, as "the children of Peruda." It establishes Peruda as the founder of a family line whose descendants were part of the restoration community [[Ezra 2:55]].
* `{{H8010}}` **Shᵉlômôh** (Solomon): Peruda's family is identified as descendants of the servants of Solomon, linking their heritage to the era of Israel's united kingdom and the building of the first temple [[Nehemiah 7:57]].
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (a servant): This term defines the ancestral role of Peruda's family line, designating them as "Solomon's servants," a group with specific functions and a recognized heritage within the nation [[Ezra 2:55]].
### Theological Significance
While a minor name, the context of `{{H6514}}` carries significant weight.
* **Genealogical Preservation:** The meticulous recording of Peruda's descendants underscores the importance of every family in the national identity of post-exilic Israel. It affirms that even the lineage of servants was remembered and valued by God.
* **Theme of Gathering:** The name itself means "dispersion," which stands in stark contrast to its context. Listing a family named "Dispersion" among those who have been gathered back to the land of Israel provides a subtle testimony to God's faithfulness in reversing the exile.
* **Faithful Heritage:** The association with **Solomon's** `{{H8010}}` **servants** `{{H5650}}` signifies a legacy of service to Israel's leadership and, by extension, to God. The return of these descendants demonstrates a continuity of that heritage.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6514}}` is more than just a name in a genealogical record. It represents the profound theme of restoration that defines the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. The name Peruda, meaning "dispersion," ironically belongs to a family that was part of God's great gathering of His people from exile, illustrating that every lineage, including that of servants, was integral to the rebuilding of the nation.
TRV