פַּלֵּט

escape

Definition

The Hebrew noun פַּלֵּט (pallêṭ) refers to an escape, deliverance, or a means of fleeing from danger. It denotes a state of being rescued from a perilous situation, often implying a narrow or miraculous avoidance of harm. In Psalm 32:7, it describes God as a 'hiding place' who surrounds the psalmist with 'songs of deliverance,' emphasizing a protective escape. In Psalm 56:7, the psalmist questions whether God will allow the wicked to 'escape' judgment, highlighting a failure of deliverance. Jeremiah 50:28 uses the term for the 'vengeance' taken against Babylon, portraying the escape of exiles as an act of divine retribution.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only three times in the Old Testament, exclusively in poetic or prophetic books (Psalms and Jeremiah). It is used in contexts of divine intervention, whether as a positive deliverance for the faithful (Psalm 32:7) or as a denied escape for the wicked (Psalm 56:7). In Jeremiah 50:28, it refers to the escape of Babylonian exiles, tying deliverance to God's justice. The usage consistently involves God's active role in either granting or preventing escape from threat.

Etymology

Derived from the verb פָּלַט (pālaṭ, H6403), meaning 'to escape, slip out, deliver.' The noun form פַּלֵּט specifically denotes the result or means of that action—an escape or deliverance. Cognates in other Semitic languages, like Ugaritic and Arabic, carry similar meanings of slipping away or rescuing, reinforcing the core idea of a narrow avoidance.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it underscores God's role as the ultimate deliverer. It connects to doctrines of salvation, divine protection, and justice, showing that escape from danger is not merely human effort but often a gracious act of God. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by highlighting the biblical theme that true deliverance—whether from sin, enemies, or judgment—originates from God, as seen in the pleas and praises of the Psalms and the prophetic assurances in Jeremiah.

In ancient Near Eastern culture, escape often involved fleeing military siege, natural disaster, or persecution, where survival was precarious and seen as divinely influenced. The concept differed from modern notions of casual avoidance, carrying weighty implications of life-and-death situations and communal testimony to God's intervention.

פְּלֵטָה (pəlēṭâ, H6413) — a more common noun for escape or deliverance, often used interchangeably but with a broader frequency. מִפְלָט (mip̄lāṭ, H4498) — a refuge or place of escape, emphasizing location rather than the act. תְּשׁוּעָה (təšûʿâ, H8668) — salvation or victory, with a stronger focus on rescue and triumph.

Word Details

Scripture References