פְּלַג (pe.lag)
pe.lag
half
A:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- A:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun peleg means simply "half" or "one of two equal parts." It is a straightforward term for division, indicating that something has been split into two identical portions.
This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in Daniel 7:25. The context describes a ruler who intends to change times and laws, and the text notes he will have authority over "a time, times, and half a time." Here, peleg specifies that final period as one half of a complete cycle, emphasizing the partial nature of his power before it is ended.
Its rarity in Scripture highlights its specific use in apocalyptic literature to mark precise durations. Translators consistently render it as "half," preserving the exact mathematical division intended by the original author without adding metaphorical weight.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word peleg appears just once in the Old Testament, found in Daniel’s vision of the end times. It simply means "half" or one part of two equal pieces. This rare term helps us understand that even when evil seems to have total control, its power is limited and temporary.
In Daniel 7:25, we read about a ruler who tries to change laws and times, but his authority lasts only for "a time and times and half a time." The use of peleg here reminds us that God’s kingdom is complete and eternal. No matter how long oppression feels, it will not last forever.
This small word offers great comfort. It tells us that our struggles are measured and known to God. His justice will prevail, and the fullness of His reign will come. We can rest in the certainty that God holds all time in His hands.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ half of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וּ/פְלַ֥ג1×
Key Verses
-
Daniel 7:25
He will speak words against the Most High, and will wear out the saints of the Most High. He will plan to change the times and the law; and they will be given into his hand until a time and times and half a time.
The word specifies the limited duration of the oppressor's power, showing it is only a partial period before God intervenes.