### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma Δαβίδ (Dabíd, `{{G1138}}`) is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew proper noun דָּוִד (David, `{{H1732}}`). As a proper name, its core meaning is simply "David," referring to the second king of united Israel. While the immediate semantic range is limited to the individual, its significance extends profoundly to his lineage, the covenant established with him, and his prophetic role. The Hebrew root of David (דָּוִד) is often associated with the meaning "beloved," a fitting description given God's favor upon him and the deep affection he inspired in others. In the New Testament, the name functions primarily as a genealogical marker and a key identifier for the Messiah.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Δαβίδ occurs frequently in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels and Acts, underscoring its pivotal role in establishing the identity of Jesus Christ.
In the genealogies of Jesus, David is presented as a crucial link in the royal lineage, confirming Jesus' right to the throne of Israel ([[Matthew 1:1]], [[Matthew 1:6]], [[Matthew 1:17]]; [[Luke 3:31]]). This fulfillment of prophecy is foundational to the New Testament's presentation of Jesus.
The title "Son of David" is a prominent messianic appellation, frequently used by those seeking Jesus' compassion and acknowledging His royal claim ([[Matthew 9:27]], [[Matthew 12:23]], [[Matthew 15:22]], [[Matthew 20:30-31]]; [[Mark 10:47-48]]; [[Luke 18:38-39]]). This title implicitly connects Jesus to the Davidic covenant and the promised king.
Peter's sermon on Pentecost extensively references David, particularly his prophetic understanding of the Messiah's resurrection ([[Acts 2:25-36]]). Similarly, Paul in Antioch Pisidia highlights God's raising up David and then his descendant, Jesus, to fulfill the promise of a savior ([[Acts 13:22-37]]).
David is also cited as the author of inspired psalms, which are understood to speak prophetically of Christ ([[Acts 1:16]], [[Romans 4:6-8]], [[Romans 11:9-10]], [[Hebrews 4:7]]). In [[Matthew 22:43-45]], Jesus Himself quotes David's words from [[Psalm 110:1]] to challenge the Pharisees regarding the Messiah's identity as both David's son and Lord.
In the book of Revelation, Jesus is identified as the "Root of David" and the "Offspring of David," affirming His ultimate authority and fulfillment of the Davidic line ([[Revelation 3:7]], [[Revelation 5:5]], [[Revelation 22:16]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of Δαβίδ is intimately connected with several key biblical concepts:
* **דָּוִד (David, `{{H1732}}`):** The Hebrew original, representing the historical king.
* **Messiah/Christ:** The promised deliverer and king, whose identity is inextricably linked to David's lineage.
* **Son of David:** A specific messianic title, emphasizing Jesus' royal heritage and covenantal right to reign.
* **Davidic Covenant:** The eternal covenant God made with David, promising an enduring dynasty and kingdom ([[2 Samuel 7:12-16]]), which finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ.
* **Kingdom of God/Heaven:** The reign of God, which is inaugurated and ultimately established through the Davidic King, Jesus.
* **Prophecy:** Numerous Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's birth, life, death, and resurrection are rooted in the promises made to David.
* **Lord:** David's own reference to the Messiah as "Lord" in [[Psalm 110:1]] is a significant theological point, highlighting the Messiah's divine nature.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Δαβίδ in the New Testament is profound and multifaceted. Foremost, David serves as the divinely appointed progenitor of the Messiah. His lineage provides the crucial link between the Old Testament promises and their fulfillment in Jesus Christ, establishing Jesus' claim as the rightful King of Israel and the world.
The Davidic Covenant, promising an eternal throne and kingdom, is central to understanding God's redemptive plan. The New Testament consistently presents Jesus as the ultimate heir and fulfiller of this covenant, whose kingdom is indeed everlasting ([[Luke 1:32-33]]).
Furthermore, David functions as a significant "type" of Christ. His life, marked by anointing, shepherding, kingship, suffering, and victory over enemies, prefigures various aspects of Jesus' ministry and person. David's role as an inspired psalmist also highlights the prophetic nature of his writings, many of which are directly applied to Christ's life, death, and resurrection by New Testament authors.
Even David's flaws and subsequent repentance underscore God's grace and His ability to work through imperfect vessels to accomplish His perfect will. His status as "a man after God's own heart" ([[Acts 13:22]]) points to a devotion that, despite failures, remained oriented towards God, serving as an example of faith for believers ([[Hebrews 11:32]]).
### Summary
The name Δαβίδ (Dabíd, `{{G1138}}`) in the New Testament refers exclusively to King David of Israel, serving as a critical link in the unfolding of God's redemptive history. His primary significance lies in his role as the ancestral head of the messianic line, from whom Jesus Christ, the promised King and Messiah, descended. The persistent use of the title "Son of David" for Jesus underscores His fulfillment of the eternal Davidic Covenant and His rightful claim to the throne. David's life, prophecies, and psalms are repeatedly cited to demonstrate that Jesus is the Christ, the divinely appointed King whose eternal kingdom fulfills all Old Testament promises. Thus, David stands as a pivotal figure, essential for understanding the identity, authority, and mission of Jesus Christ.
TRV