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פָּלַץ (pa.lats)

pa.lats

to shudder

H6426 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

H:V

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
H:V

Word Overview

The Hebrew verb palats appears only once in the Old Testament, found in Job 9:6. In this context, it describes a violent trembling or shuddering, specifically depicting God shaking the earth’s pillars so that they quake.

Its occurrence is limited to this single verse, where Job uses the image to convey the overwhelming power of the Creator. The word captures a physical reaction to divine majesty, emphasizing the instability and fear induced by such immense force rather than a gentle movement.

This rare usage highlights the terrifying aspect of God’s sovereignty in Job’s theology. By focusing on this specific instance, the text underscores the vast gap between human fragility and the shaking power of the divine.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word palats describes a violent shudder, appearing only in Job 9:6 to depict the earth’s pillars trembling under God’s power. This rare verb captures a physical reaction to divine majesty, emphasizing the overwhelming force of the Creator rather than gentle movement.

When we encounter such imagery, it reminds us of the vast gap between human fragility and God’s sovereignty. It invites awe and reverence, acknowledging that the One who holds the world together is far greater than our understanding. This recognition can ground us in humility when facing life’s uncertainties.

In moments of fear or instability, remembering this power offers comfort. The same force that shakes the earth also sustains it. We can trust that God’s sovereignty is not chaotic but purposeful, guiding history with a strength that surpasses our own limitations.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • they tremble/ !1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • יִתְפַלָּצֽוּ/ן\׃1×

Key Verses

  • Job 9:6
    He shakes the earth out of its place. Its pillars tremble.

    This verse uses palats to describe the earth's pillars trembling, illustrating the terrifying power of God’s sovereignty in Job’s theology.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word palats mean?

Palats means to shudder or tremble violently. It is a rare verb used in the Old Testament to describe a physical reaction to divine power, specifically in Job 9:6 where it depicts the earth’s pillars quaking under God’s sovereignty.

Where does palats appear in the Bible?

This word appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in Job 9:6. In this context, Job uses it to convey the overwhelming and terrifying power of the Creator shaking the foundations of the earth.

How is palats different from other words for trembling?

While other Hebrew words might describe general fear or slight shaking, palats specifically denotes a violent shudder or quake. It emphasizes the instability and awe induced by immense divine force rather than a gentle movement.

What does this word teach about God’s power?

Palats highlights the vast gap between human fragility and God’s sovereignty. It shows that God’s power is not just strong but overwhelming, capable of shaking the very foundations of the earth, which invites reverence and humility.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Job 1 verse
Job 9:6

He shakes the earth out of its place. Its pillars tremble.