### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gidyâh**, represented by `{{H1428}}`, refers to a **river brink** or **bank**. It appears only **1 time** in the Bible. The term is defined as being the same as `{{H1415}}` **gâdâh**, specifying the edge of a river, particularly one that is cut into by the stream.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H1428}}` is found in [[1 Chronicles 12:15]]. The verse describes a group of mighty men who "went over Jordan in the first month, when it had overflown all his banks." In this context, the word, used alongside its root `{{H1415}}`, highlights the formidable challenge of crossing the Jordan River during its flood stage. This act of crossing enabled them to put the inhabitants of the valleys to flight to the **east** `{{H4217}}` and **west** `{{H4628}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of this single occurrence:
* `{{H1415}}` **gâdâh** (a border of a river; bank): As the root word, it is used interchangeably with `{{H1428}}` in its only appearance. It is consistently used to describe the **banks** of the Jordan River, often when it is overflowing [[Joshua 3:15]].
* `{{H3383}}` **Yardên** (Jordan): This is the specific river whose **banks** are mentioned. It is a key geographical feature in Israel's history, often the site of significant crossings and miraculous events [[2 Kings 5:14]].
* `{{H4390}}` **mâlêʼ** (to fill or be full of): This word describes the state of the river as having "overflown." It signifies a state of abundance or being filled to capacity, which in this case creates a major obstacle [[1 Chronicles 12:15]].
* `{{H5674}}` **ʻâbar** (to cross over): This verb describes the action of the mighty men. It signifies a transition or passing through a barrier, whether it be water, calamities, or a geographical border [[Isaiah 43:2]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1428}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context:
* **Symbol of a Formidable Obstacle:** The mention of overflowing **banks** `{{H1428}}` establishes the Jordan River as a seemingly impassable barrier. Crossing it at this time was an act of extraordinary courage and faith, demonstrating the might of those who came to join David [[1 Chronicles 12:15]].
* **Setting for a Decisive Action:** The event occurs in the **first** `{{H7223}}` **month** `{{H2320}}`, a significant time. The overflowing **bank** sets the stage for a heroic crossing that had strategic consequences, as the men secured the surrounding valleys.
* **A Boundary of Commitment:** The **banks** of the Jordan `{{H3383}}` represent a major geographical and symbolic boundary. To "cross over" `{{H5674}}` it, especially when its **banks** had been breached by floodwaters, signaled a total commitment to the cause they were joining.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H1428}}` **gidyâh** appears only once, its meaning as a **river brink** is clear and impactful. Its sole appearance in [[1 Chronicles 12:15]] is not merely descriptive but serves to emphasize the magnitude of the obstacle the mighty men overcame. The image of the overflowing **banks** of the Jordan captures a moment of great courage and divine enablement, marking a significant transition and commitment.
TRV