### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gâd**, represented by `{{H1409}}`, carries a dual meaning of **fortune** or **troop**. It appears just **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, yet these instances reveal a significant shift in its application from a personal name to an object of idolatrous worship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its first usage, Leah exclaims, "A **troop** cometh," upon the birth of her son, whom she names Gad [[Genesis 30:11]]. Here, the word signifies a fortunate increase or arrival. In contrast, Isaiah uses `{{H1409}}` in a rebuke against those who "prepare a table for that **troop**," connecting the term to idolatry and the act of forsaking the Lord [[Isaiah 65:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of `{{H1409}}`, particularly its use in Isaiah:
* `{{H1408}}` **Gad** (a variation of גָּד; Fortune, a Babylonian deity; that troop.): This variation appears alongside `{{H1409}}` in [[Isaiah 65:11]] and explicitly identifies "that troop" as **Fortune**, a Babylonian deity.
* `{{H4507}}` **Mᵉnîy** (the Apportioner, i.e. Fate (as an idol); number.): Mentioned in the same breath as `{{H1409}}` in Isaiah, this term refers to another idol, **Fate** or "that number," further cementing the context of idolatry [[Isaiah 65:11]].
* `{{H6186}}` **ʻârak** (to set in a row, i.e. arrange, put in order): This verb describes the specific act of idolatry, to **prepare** or **arrange** a table for the false deity [[Isaiah 65:11]].
* `{{H5800}}` **ʻâzab** (to loosen, i.e. relinquish, permit, etc.; commit self, fail, forsake, fortify, help, leave (destitute, off), refuse, [idiom] surely.): This word establishes the core sin associated with worshipping "that troop," which is to **forsake** the LORD [[Isaiah 65:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1409}}` is demonstrated in its contrasting applications.
* **From Blessing to Idolatry:** The word's meaning shifts dramatically from a personal blessing marking the birth of a son [[Genesis 30:11]] to a symbol of apostasy and divine judgment [[Isaiah 65:11]].
* **Condemnation of False Worship:** Its use in Isaiah is a pointed condemnation of those who forsake God to worship deities of fortune. The act of preparing a table for "that **troop**" is presented as a direct rejection of God's "holy mountain" [[Isaiah 65:11]].
* **Personification of Fortune:** `{{H1409}}` is used to personify luck or fortune as a false god, serving as a warning against trusting in chance rather than in the true God who provides.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1409}}` provides a compact yet powerful illustration of a word's contextual meaning. It moves from the personal and hopeful naming of a son in Genesis to a sharp prophetic condemnation of idolatry in Isaiah. Though appearing only twice, **gâd** serves as a potent reminder of the line between acknowledging fortune as a blessing from God and worshipping it as a god itself.
TRV