Diminutive of pinax (board, platter). A small writing tablet, typically coated with wax for inscription with a stylus. Zechariah wrote on one to name his son John.
When asked what his son should be named, the mute Zechariah asked for a writing tablet and wrote: 'His name is John' (Luke 1:63). At that moment his mouth was opened and he began praising God. Obedience to God's word releases the tongue for praise. Zechariah's silence ended when he obeyed the angel's instruction.