פֶּלֶס

פֶּלֶס

a balance

Definition

The Hebrew noun פֶּלֶס (peleç) refers to a balance or scales used for weighing. It denotes the instrument itself, a tool for measuring weight with precision. In its two biblical occurrences, it is used metaphorically to describe God's perfect standard of justice and measurement. In Proverbs 16:11, it is 'honest scales and balances' that belong to the LORD, symbolizing His righteous standards for human conduct. In Isaiah 40:12, God is rhetorically asked who has measured the waters 'in the hollow of his hand' or weighed the mountains 'on a scale' (פֶּלֶס), emphasizing His immeasurable power and sovereignty over creation.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the Old Testament, both in poetic or wisdom literature. It appears in a wisdom context in Proverbs 16:11, where it represents the divine standard for ethical business practices and justice. It is used in a prophetic context in Isaiah 40:12, within a series of rhetorical questions highlighting God's incomparable greatness and creative power. In both cases, the literal object (scales) is employed for a profound figurative purpose.

Etymology

פֶּלֶס (peleç) is a noun derived from the root verb פָּלַס (pālas, H6424), which means 'to weigh, measure, or balance.' This root conveys the action of making something level, even, or just. The noun form specifically names the instrument used for that action. Cognates exist in other Semitic languages, like Ugaritic and Akkadian, with similar meanings related to weighing and measuring.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects the concrete tool of commerce (scales) to the abstract concepts of divine justice and omniscience. It teaches that God's moral law is the ultimate standard of fairness (Proverbs 16:11). Furthermore, it underscores that God's wisdom and power are beyond human measurement, as He Himself is the one who weighs the cosmos (Isaiah 40:12). Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by revealing how biblical authors used everyday objects to point to profound spiritual truths about God's character. In ancient Israelite culture, balances were crucial for honest trade in markets, typically consisting of a beam with two pans suspended from it. Standardized stone weights were used in one pan. Dishonest scales were a common form of exploitation condemned by the prophets (e.g., Amos 8:5, Micah 6:11). Therefore, 'honest scales' (פֶּלֶס) were a powerful cultural symbol of integrity, justice, and divine approval. מֹאזְנַיִם (mo'znayim, H3976) — The more common, dual-form word for a pair of scales or balances, used in literal contexts (e.g., Leviticus 19:36). פֶּלֶס can carry a more poetic or figurative nuance. אֶבֶן (ʾeven, H68) — Literally 'stone,' but often refers to the standardized weight stones used with a פֶּלֶס or מֹאזְנַיִם.

Word Details