Hebrew · Strong's H6419
פָּלַל
(pah-LAL)
verb
To intercede or make supplication to God, often involving a plea or request on behalf of oneself or others.
The Hebrew verb H6419, *palal*, primarily means "to pray" or "to intercede." While its etymological root might suggest a connection to judging or mediating, its predominant usage in the Old Testament is undeniably related to communication with the divine. This prayer is not merely a thought or wish, but an active, often vocal, engagement with God, frequently in times of distress, confession, or thanksgiving. The semantic range of *palal* encompasses a deeply personal and earnest approach to God, reflecting a posture of dependence and trust. It can involve requests for deliverance, forgiveness, or blessings, and sometimes takes the form of intercession for others, highlighting a communal dimension of prayer.
Biblically, *palal* is central to the covenant relationship between Israel and Yahweh. It is the means by which individuals and the nation express their faith, repentance, and hope. Prophets, kings, and common people alike are depicted as praying using this verb, underscoring its universality within biblical faith. The act of prayer, in these contexts, is often depicted as having tangible effects, such as divine intervention, healing, or the reversal of judgment. It is portrayed as a powerful and essential spiritual discipline, integral to experiencing God's presence and intervention in human affairs.
While the concept of prayer is broad, *palal* often emphasizes the petitionary aspect. It is frequently presented as a direct address to God, often with specific requests. The theological weight of *palal* lies in its assertion of God's readiness to hear and respond to His people. It reveals a God who is interactive and personally involved, not distant or unconcerned. The practice of *palal* serves as a constant reminder of God's sovereignty and His invitation for humanity to draw near to Him through earnest communication. The instances where God instructs against prayer for a certain people or situation (Jeremiah 7:16, 14:11) are stark exceptions that underscore the usual expectation of God’s willingness to hear.
Common English renderings
- pray
- make prayer
- intreat
- make supplication
- judge
Key verses
"If thy people go out to battle against their enemies, by whatsoever way thou shalt send them, and they pray unto thee toward this city which thou hast chosen, and the house which I have built for thy name;"
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"And while I was speaking, and praying, and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my supplication before Jehovah my God for the holy mountain of my God;"
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"And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days; and I fasted and prayed before the God of heaven,"
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"Now therefore, take unto you seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt-offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you; for him will I accept, that I deal not with you after your folly; for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath."
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"And I prayed unto Jehovah, and said, O Lord Jehovah, destroy not thy people and thine inheritance, that thou hast redeemed through thy greatness, that thou hast brought forth out of Egypt with a mighty hand."
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"Then Jonah prayed unto Jehovah his God out of the fish’s belly."
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