### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Pᵉthûwʼêl**, represented by `{{H6602}}`, is the name of an Israelite defined as **enlarged of God**. This name is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the entirety of the biblical text, identifying a specific individual.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical reference to **Pethuel** occurs in the opening of the prophetic book of Joel. His sole function in the narrative is to establish the identity of the prophet Joel. The scripture states, "The word of the LORD that came to Joel the son of **Pethuel**" [[Joel 1:1]]. No further details about his life, actions, or character are provided, marking him exclusively as the father of the prophet.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear alongside `{{H6602}}` in its only context, providing a framework for its meaning:
* `{{H3100}}` **Yôwʼêl** (Joel): Defined as "Jehovah (is his) God," this is the name of Pethuel's son. He is the recipient of the divine message mentioned in the verse [[Joel 1:1]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word, meaning "a son (as a builder of the family name)," is the term that directly links Joel to his father, Pethuel, establishing the lineage [[Joel 1:1]].
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh** (the LORD): The name for God, defined as "(the) self-Existent or Eternal." It is the LORD whose word comes to Pethuel's son [[Joel 1:1]].
* `{{H1697}}` **dâbâr** (word): Meaning "a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing," this refers to the divine revelation given to Joel [[Joel 1:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6602}}` is not derived from the actions of the individual, but from his name and his paternal role in the chain of divine revelation.
* **Genealogical Anchor:** Pethuel's primary purpose in scripture is to anchor the prophet Joel in a specific lineage. By naming Joel's father, the text grounds the prophetic message in a real-world, identifiable family line [[Joel 1:1]].
* **Theophoric Identity:** The name **Pᵉthûwʼêl** itself, meaning "enlarged of God," carries theological weight. It intrinsically connects the bearer's identity to a relationship with God, even in the absence of a narrative about him.
* **Link to Prophecy:** Pethuel stands as the immediate human precursor to a specific prophetic word from the LORD `{{H3068}}`. He is the father of the person chosen to receive and convey God's message [[Joel 1:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6602}}` **Pᵉthûwʼêl** is a name whose significance is entirely contained within its single mention. While the man himself is a background figure, his name—meaning "enlarged of God"—and his role as the father of the prophet Joel are permanently recorded. He serves as a biblical example of how an individual's identity can be preserved solely through their connection to the work God performs through their descendants.
TRV