פֵּאָה

properly, mouth in a figurative sense, i.e. direction, region, extremity

Definition

The Hebrew noun פֵּאָה (pêʼâh) primarily refers to the 'corner' or 'extremity' of something, often describing the edges of physical objects. In the context of the tabernacle construction (Exodus 25-27, 36), it specifically denotes the 'corners' or 'ends' of the boards, curtains, and courtyard, emphasizing structural completeness and boundary. Figuratively, it extends to mean a 'region' or 'quarter' of land, as in Ezekiel's vision of dividing the land (Ezekiel 48:1-8), where it signifies territorial allotments. This dual sense of physical extremity and directional area captures the word's range from concrete corners to abstract geographical sections.

Biblical Usage

פֵּאָה appears 59 times, predominantly in Exodus (over 30 times) detailing the precise measurements and corners of the tabernacle's components (e.g., Exodus 26:18, 27:9-13), highlighting its architectural importance. It is also used in Ezekiel's prophecies (e.g., Ezekiel 48:1-8) to describe the divisions of the Promised Land among the tribes, indicating territorial boundaries. In Leviticus 19:9 and 23:22, it refers to the 'edges' of a field left unharvested for the poor, showing a social-legal application. The word's usage spans legal, prophetic, and narrative texts, often emphasizing limits, boundaries, or designated portions.

Etymology

פֵּאָה is the feminine form of the adverb פֹּה (poh, H6311), meaning 'here' or 'this place.' This derivation suggests a connection to location or a specific point, evolving to denote the extremity or corner of an area. Cognates in other Semitic languages, such as Ugaritic and Aramaic, also relate to 'side' or 'edge,' reinforcing its sense of boundary. The development from a general locative term to a noun for 'corner' reflects how physical limits were conceptualized in ancient Hebrew thought.

Semantic Range

פֵּאָה carries theological weight in contexts of divine order and provision. In the tabernacle instructions, its precise use underscores God's attention to detail in worship spaces, symbolizing holiness and completeness (Exodus 25-27). In Leviticus 19:9-10, the command to leave the 'edges' (פֵּאָה) of fields unharvested embodies God's care for the marginalized, linking ritual purity with social justice. Ezekiel's use in land divisions (Ezekiel 48) points to God's faithfulness in restoring Israel's inheritance, emphasizing equitable distribution under divine sovereignty. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by highlighting how physical boundaries in scripture often reflect spiritual principles of inclusion, order, and God's provision.

In ancient Israelite culture, corners and edges held practical and symbolic significance. For example, the corners of fields were left unharvested (Leviticus 19:9) as a form of social welfare, ensuring the poor and foreigners could glean food—a practice rooted in agrarian life. In construction, as seen with the tabernacle, corners represented structural integrity and sacred space, marking the limits of holy areas. This differs from modern casual references to 'corners,' as in biblical times, such extremities often carried legal or religious obligations, reflecting a community-oriented worldview where boundaries defined both physical and social responsibilities.

קָצֶה (qatseh, H7097) — generally means 'end' or 'extremity,' often used interchangeably for borders but can imply a more terminal point. פִּנָּה (pinnah, H6438) — specifically 'corner' or 'cornerstone,' with architectural and metaphorical uses, such as in Psalm 118:22 for a foundational stone. גְּבוּל (gevul, H1366) — refers to 'border' or 'territory,' emphasizing geographical limits rather than physical corners.

Word Details

Scripture References