Original Word: פֶלֶס
Part of Speech: Noun Masculine
Transliteration: pelec
Pronunciation: peh'-les
Phonetic Spelling: (peh'-les)
Definition: Balance, scales
Meaning: a balance

scales, weight

From palac; a balance -- scales, weight.

see HEBREW palac

Word Origin
of uncertain derivation
Definition
a balance, scale
NASB Translation
balance (2).

מֶּ֫לֶס noun [masculine] balance, scale; — literal Proverbs 16:11: figurative Isaiah 40:11 (in both "" מאֹוְנַיִם).

Word Origin: Derived from the root פָּלַס (palas), which means "to weigh" or "to make level."

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: • G4493 • ῥόπτρον (rhoptron): While not a direct equivalent, this Greek term refers to a rod or beam of a balance, used in the context of weighing. It shares the thematic element of measurement and fairness, akin to the Hebrew פֶלֶס. The concept of balance in both Hebrew and Greek underscores the universal principle of justice and equity found throughout the Scriptures.

Usage: The term פֶלֶס is used in the context of weighing or measuring, often symbolizing fairness, justice, and equity. It appears in the Hebrew Bible to denote the concept of balance or scales, both in a literal and metaphorical sense.

Context: • Literal Use: In the ancient Near East, balances and scales were essential tools for trade and commerce, ensuring fair transactions. The use of פֶלֶס in the Hebrew Bible reflects this practical application, emphasizing the importance of honesty and integrity in economic dealings.
• Metaphorical Use: Beyond its literal application, פֶלֶס is often used metaphorically to represent justice and righteousness. The balance symbolizes the divine standard of fairness that God expects from His people. It serves as a reminder of the moral and ethical obligations to maintain equity in all aspects of life.
• Biblical References: While the specific term פֶלֶס may not appear frequently, the concept of just weights and measures is a recurring theme in the Scriptures. For example, Proverbs 16:11 states, "Honest scales and balances belong to the LORD; all the weights in the bag are of His making" (BSB). This verse underscores the divine origin of justice and the expectation that human practices align with God's standards.
• Theological Significance: The use of פֶלֶס in the Bible highlights the broader theological theme of God's justice. It serves as a metaphor for divine judgment, where God weighs the hearts and actions of individuals. The balance is a symbol of God's impartiality and the ultimate accountability of humanity before Him.

בַּפֶּ֙לֶס֙ בפלס פֶּ֤לֶס ׀ פלס bap·pe·les bappeles pe·les pelesInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts