### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Gaddîyʼêl**, represented by `{{H1427}}`, means **fortune of God**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. This name identifies a specific Israelite who participated in a key event during the wilderness wanderings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Gaddiel's sole appearance in the biblical narrative is in the list of the twelve spies sent by Moses to scout the land of Canaan. He is explicitly named as the representative chosen from the tribe of Zebulun. His identity is recorded in the passage that lists each spy, his father, and his tribe: "Of the tribe of Zebulun, Gaddiel the son of Sodi" [[Numbers 13:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from his introductory verse provide his complete context:
* `{{H2074}}` **Zᵉbûwlûwn** (habitation; Zebulon, a son of Jacob; also his territory and tribe; Zebulun): This identifies the specific tribe that Gaddiel was chosen to represent on the spying mission [[Numbers 13:10]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son (as a builder of the family name)): This establishes Gaddiel's direct lineage and patriarchal identity as the son of Sodi [[Numbers 13:10]].
* `{{H5476}}` **Çôwdîy** (a confidant; Sodi, an Israelite; Sodi): This is the proper name of Gaddiel's father, providing his direct parentage [[Numbers 13:10]].
* `{{H4294}}` **maṭṭeh** (a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe): This word is used to denote the tribal division of Israel from which Gaddiel was selected [[Numbers 13:10]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1427}}` is rooted in the meaning of the name itself and the context of the mission.
* **A Name of Providence:** The name Gaddiel, "fortune of God," carries a meaning of divine blessing or destiny.
* **Tribal Representation:** His selection as the spy for Zebulun placed him in a position of great responsibility, acting as the eyes for his entire tribe regarding the Promised Land [[Numbers 13:10]].
* **Context of Faith:** Being part of the twelve spies, Gaddiel's story is tied to the pivotal moment of faith and doubt that would determine Israel's fate for the next generation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1427}}` is the proper name of a single individual, Gaddiel, mentioned once in Scripture. His identity is defined by his father, Sodi, and his role as the representative for the tribe of Zebulun among the twelve spies. The name itself, meaning "fortune of God," stands within the crucial narrative of Israel's assessment of the land God had promised them.
TRV