פֶּ֫לֶת (pe.let)
pe.let
Peleth
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Peleth, meaning "swiftness," appears in Scripture as a personal identifier for two distinct men separated by centuries. In the wilderness narrative, he is the father of On, a Reubenite who joined Dathan and Abiram in their rebellion against Moses (Numbers 16:1). This early mention ties the name to a moment of intense political and spiritual crisis within Israel’s journey.
Centuries later, the name reappears in the genealogies of Judah. Here, Peleth is listed as the son of Jonathan and brother of Zaza (1 Chronicles 2:33). This second instance places him within the lineage of Jerahmeel, connecting him to the royal line of David rather than the tribal politics of the Exodus era.
While the name itself suggests speed or agility, its biblical significance lies in its rarity. Occurring only twice, it serves as a historical marker for specific family lines rather than carrying a theological weight. The repetition of this uncommon name across such a long span of time highlights the careful preservation of genealogical records in the Hebrew Bible.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Peleth appears only twice in Scripture, marking two distinct individuals separated by centuries. In Numbers, On son of Peleth stands alongside rebels who challenged Moses’ leadership. This moment reminds us that even those closely tied to the community can choose separation when pride takes hold.
Centuries later, the name resurfaces in 1 Chronicles as part of Judah’s lineage, linking to Jerahmeel and the royal line of David. Though brief, these mentions show how God preserves family records with care. Each name, however small, contributes to the larger story of His people.
For your faith, this word invites reflection on belonging. Whether in times of crisis or quiet genealogy, every person has a place in God’s unfolding plan. Trust that He knows each name and writes each life into His eternal story.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Peleth2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- פֶּ֣לֶת1×
- פֶּ֖לֶת1×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 16:1
Now Korah, the son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, with Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab, and On, the son of Peleth, sons of Reuben, took some men.
This verse identifies On son of Peleth as a participant in the rebellion against Moses, linking the name to a moment of spiritual division.