פָּלָה (pa.lah)
pa.lah
be distinguished
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb palah carries the core sense of being distinct or set apart from the ordinary. In its most common form, the Niphal, it describes something that stands out as unique or exceptional. This is not merely about physical separation but about a quality that marks something as different, often leading to the meaning "to be wonderful" or "marvelous." When a person or event is described with palah, it signals that they do not fit into standard categories but instead possess a special character.
The word appears in key passages such as Exodus 15:11, where Moses asks who among the gods can compare to Yahweh, highlighting His distinct majesty. It also surfaces in Psalm 139:14, where the psalmist declares being "wonderfully made," emphasizing the unique design of human life. The Hiphil form shifts the focus to action, meaning to set something apart or make it separate, underscoring a deliberate act of distinction.
Its root suggests a clear boundary between the common and the extraordinary. Translators often render it as "wonderful" or "distinguished," capturing the idea that what is palah commands attention because it defies ordinary explanation. The term invites readers to recognize moments or beings that break from the norm, pointing to a reality that is both separate and significant.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word palah points to a quality of being set apart, distinct from the ordinary world around us. In Exodus, it describes how God separates His people from their neighbors, marking them with a visible difference that reveals His favor. This distinction is not about isolation but about identity; it shows that we belong to a different kingdom with a unique calling.
We see this same theme in Psalm 139, where the psalmist declares being wonderfully made. Here, palah highlights the intricate and unique design of every human life. It reminds us that our existence is not accidental or mass-produced but intentionally crafted by God. This recognition brings comfort, knowing that we are known and valued in a way that no one else is.
When we face moments where we feel ordinary or unnoticed, this word invites us to look closer at God’s hand in our lives. Whether through His protective care or His creative design, He sets us apart for good. This assurance allows us to rest in the knowledge that our distinctiveness comes from Him, offering hope and peace in our daily walk.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- make wonderful1×
- he separates1×
- and/ we will be distinguished1×
- and/ he will separate1×
- I am wonderful1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- נִ֫פְלֵ֥יתִי1×
- יַפְלֶ֣ה1×
- וְ/נִפְלֵ֙ינוּ֙1×
- וְ/הִפְלָ֣ה1×
- הַפְלֵ֣ה1×
Key Verses
-
Exodus 11:7
But against any of the children of Israel a dog won’t even bark or move its tongue, against man or animal, that you may know that Yahweh makes a distinction between the Egyptians and Israel.
This verse uses the verb to describe God's active separation of Israel from Egypt, serving as a visible sign of His authority and favor.
-
Psalms 139:14
I will give thanks to you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful. My soul knows that very well.
Here the related adjective form emphasizes the psalmist's awe at the unique and intricate design of his own creation by God.
-
Exodus 9:4
Yahweh will make a distinction between the livestock of Israel and the livestock of Egypt; and nothing shall die of all that belongs to the children of Israel.”’”
The word appears in the context of judgment, showing how God distinguishes between His people and their oppressors to protect them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Hebrew word palah mean?
Where does palah appear in the Bible?
How is palah different from other words for separation?
Every Occurrence (5 verses across 2 books)
Exodus 3 verses
Yahweh will make a distinction between the livestock of Israel and the livestock of Egypt; and nothing shall die of all…
Exodus 11:7But against any of the children of Israel a dog won’t even bark or move its tongue, against man or animal, that you may…
Exodus 33:16For how would people know that I have found favor in your sight, I and your people? Isn’t it that you go with us, so…