### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼĂdônîy-Tsedeq**, represented by `{{H139}}`, means **lord of justice**. This name identifies a specific Canaanitish king, Adonizedec, who is mentioned by name **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. His role is presented within the context of the Israelite conquest of Canaan.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **ʼĂdônîy-Tsedeq** `{{H139}}` appears as the **king** `{{H4428}}` of **Jerusalem** `{{H3389}}`. His story begins when he **heard** `{{H8085}}` about Joshua's military successes, specifically how Joshua had **taken** `{{H3920}}` Ai and **utterly destroyed** `{{H2763}}` it, just as he had **done** `{{H6213}}` to Jericho. He also learned that the inhabitants of Gibeon had **made peace** `{{H7999}}` with Israel [[Joshua 10:1]]. In response to this news, **Adonizedek** `{{H139}}` **sent** `{{H7971}}` messengers to four other Canaanite kings to form a military coalition against the Gibeonites and, by extension, Joshua's forces [[Joshua 10:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for Adonizedec's actions:
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This title defines Adonizedec's status and authority as the ruler of Jerusalem [[Joshua 10:1]].
* `{{H3389}}` **Yᵉrûwshâlaim** (Jerusalem): Defined as "founded peaceful," this is the name of Adonizedec's capital city. His actions initiate a major conflict rather than peace [[Joshua 10:1]].
* `{{H2763}}` **châram** (to utterly destroy): This word describes the complete destruction of cities like Ai by Israel, which prompted Adonizedec's fear and reaction [[Joshua 10:1]].
* `{{H7971}}` **shâlach** (to send away, for, or out): This verb describes Adonizedec's primary action in the narrative, where he sends for allies to oppose Israel [[Joshua 10:3]].
### Theological Significance
The appearance of `{{H139}}` highlights several key themes within the book of Joshua:
* **Organized Opposition:** Adonizedec represents the unified resistance of the established Canaanite rulers to Israel's advance. He does not act alone but initiates an alliance of five kings [[Joshua 10:3]].
* **Human Authority vs. Divine Will:** The name "lord of justice" stands in stark contrast to his actions. As the **king** `{{H4428}}` of Jerusalem, Adonizedec mobilizes forces to fight against the people carrying out what the narrative presents as God's judgment.
* **Catalyst for Conflict:** Adonizedec's decision to form a coalition directly leads to the major battle described in Joshua chapter 10, where Joshua and the Israelites defend Gibeon against the five kings.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H139}}` is not a general term but the proper name of a specific antagonist in the conquest narrative. As Adonizedec, the "lord of justice" and king of Jerusalem, his character serves as a pivotal figure whose fear and political maneuvering trigger a significant military confrontation with Israel. His story illustrates the organized human resistance faced by the Israelites as they entered the promised land.
TRV