פֶּלַח

פֶּלַח

a slice

Definition

The Hebrew noun פֶּלַח (pelach) primarily means 'a slice' or 'a piece,' specifically referring to something cut or divided. In its six biblical occurrences, it most often describes a slice of food, such as the slice of a fig cake in Judges 9:53 or a slice of bread in 1 Samuel 30:12. However, in Song of Solomon 4:3 and 6:7, it is used metaphorically to describe a 'slice' or 'segment' of a pomegranate, poetically referring to the beloved's temple. In Job 41:24, the meaning extends to the 'segments' or 'plates' of Leviathan's hide, emphasizing its impenetrable, armored nature.

Biblical Usage

This word is used in narrative, poetic, and prophetic contexts. It appears in historical books (Judges, 1-2 Samuel) for literal slices of food. In poetry (Song of Solomon, Job), it carries metaphorical or descriptive force. For example, in 2 Samuel 11:21, it refers to the 'piece' of a millstone that killed Abimelech, a key detail in a battle story. The usage pattern shows a movement from the concrete (food) to the figurative (beauty, strength) and the destructive (weapon).

Etymology

פֶּלַח (pelach) derives from the root פָּלַח (palach, H6398), which means 'to cleave,' 'split,' or 'serve.' The noun form retains the core idea of something that has been split or cut apart. Cognates in other Semitic languages, like Akkadian 'palāḫu,' also relate to splitting or serving, showing the root's dual semantic range of division and labor.

Semantic Range

While פֶּלַח itself is not a theologically loaded term, its usage contributes to biblical imagery. In Song of Solomon, the 'slice' of pomegranate symbolizes beauty and vitality, enriching the theme of God-given love. In Job 41:24, describing Leviathan's 'segments' underscores God's sovereign power over chaos and untamable creation. Understanding this concrete term helps readers appreciate the vivid, tangible metaphors used in Scripture. In ancient Israelite culture, slicing bread or fig cakes was a common domestic act, making this a relatable term. The 'slice of a millstone' in 2 Samuel 11:21 reflects the use of millstones in daily grinding of grain, with even a fragment being a lethal weapon. The pomegranate was a symbol of fertility and beauty, so a 'slice' of it in Song of Solomon would evoke richness and desirability to the original audience. פְּתִית (petith, H6595) — a crumb or morsel, smaller than a slice; חֶלְקָה (chelqah, H2513) — a portion or parcel of land, not a cut piece; רְבִיעִית (revi'ith, H7243) — a fourth part or quarter, a specific measurement.

Word Details