פַּגְעִיאֵל (pag.i.el)
pag.i.el
Pagiel
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Pagiel, or פַּגְעִיאֵל, appears five times in the Hebrew Bible, all within the book of Numbers. It identifies a specific individual from the tribe of Asher during the wilderness journey. He is described as the son of Ochran and serves as one of the tribal chiefs appointed to assist Moses in organizing the Israelite community.
Etymologically, the name combines pgaʿ ("event" or "encounter") with El ("God"), suggesting a meaning like "God's encounter" or "God's event." This theophoric element links the leader directly to divine presence, even as he performs administrative duties. His role highlights how God worked through human structures and appointed leaders during the exodus period.
While not a major narrative figure, Pagiel’s repeated mention underscores the importance of tribal representation in Israel’s early organization. Each chief’s inclusion reflects a broader pattern where leadership was distributed among the tribes rather than concentrated solely in Moses or Aaron.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we look at the list of leaders in Numbers, names like Moses and Aaron stand out clearly. Yet God also included Pagiel, a chief from the tribe of Asher. His name means "God's encounter," which reminds us that divine presence is not limited to dramatic miracles or high-profile prophets. It reaches into the ordinary structures of community life.
Pagiel’s role involved organizing people and managing resources. This shows that God values faithful stewardship in everyday tasks. Whether you are leading a large group or managing small details, your work matters to Him. He uses willing hearts to build order out of chaos and care for His people.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Pagiel4×
- [was] Pagiel1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- פַּגְעִיאֵ֖ל5×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 1:13
Of Asher: Pagiel the son of Ochran.
This verse establishes Pagiel’s identity as a tribal representative, showing how God appointed specific individuals to share the burden of leadership.
-
Numbers 2:27
“Those who encamp next to him shall be the tribe of Asher. The prince of the children of Asher shall be Pagiel the son of Ochran.
Here Pagiel is assigned a strategic camp location, illustrating that every tribe had a defined place and purpose in the community's movement.
-
Numbers 7:72
On the eleventh day Pagiel the son of Ochran, prince of the children of Asher,
Pagiel’s offering on the eleventh day highlights the equal participation of all tribal chiefs in honoring God during the tabernacle dedication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Pagiel mean?
Why is Pagiel mentioned so many times?
What was Pagiel's role in Israel?
Every Occurrence (5 verses across 1 books)
Numbers 5 verses
Of Asher: Pagiel the son of Ochran.
Numbers 2:27“Those who encamp next to him shall be the tribe of Asher. The prince of the children of Asher shall be Pagiel the son…
Numbers 7:72On the eleventh day Pagiel the son of Ochran, prince of the children of Asher,
Numbers 7:77and for the sacrifice of peace offerings, two head of cattle, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year…
Numbers 10:26Pagiel the son of Ochran was over the army of the tribe of the children of Asher.