פֵּאָה

Pê’â refers to the "side" or "edge" of something, often a geographical area or a physical object. It can denote the extremities of a land, marking boundaries or divisions within a territory. This spatial meaning is evident in the detailed descriptions of the tribal allotments and the temple in Ezekiel, where pê’â delineates the various sides and corners. Beyond geography, the word can also indicate a "corner" of an object, such as the rings on the ark of the covenant, emphasizing a precise location or appendage.

The term takes on a cultural and social significance when it refers to the "corners" of the beard. In Leviticus, the command not to shave the "corner of the beard" was a distinctive practice for the Israelites, setting them apart from surrounding nations and reinforcing their identity as a holy people. This usage highlights the religious and ceremonial implications of the word, where even physical details like hairstyles carry theological weight within the covenant community.

While primarily a spatial term, pê’â can sometimes be understood more metaphorically as the "utmost part" or "extremity" of something, even if not physically defined by a sharp angle. This broader semantic range allows it to describe the furthest reaches or most distant points, emphasizing a comprehensive scope. In all its applications, pê’â consistently points to boundaries, divisions, or distinct sections, whether of the land, an object, or even human appearance, underscoring the Hebrew worldview’s attention to order and demarcation.