or גַּדיָה; the same as גָּדָה; a river brink; bank.
Transliteration:gidyâh
Pronunciation:ghid-yaw'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1428}}`, *gidyâh* (גִּדְיָה), also rendered *gadyâh* (גַּדיָה), directly denotes a "river brink" or "bank." Its etymological root is linked to `{{H1415}}` (*gâdâh*), which carries the same meaning of a bank or shore, particularly of a river or sea. The underlying concept likely conveys the idea of a boundary or a demarcation, the edge where water meets land. It describes a specific geographical feature that defines the course and containment of a body of water. The term thus refers to the physical barrier or border that holds a river within its channel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H1428}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in the book of Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 12:15]]: "These are they that went over Jordan in the first month, when it had overflown all his banks (גִּדְיָה); and they put to flight all them of the valleys, both toward the east, and toward the west."
In this sole occurrence, `{{H1428}}` describes the challenging conditions faced by the Gadites and some of the Manassites who came to join David at Ziklag. The Jordan River, known for its seasonal floods, had overflowed its banks during the first month (likely Nisan, corresponding to spring, when snowmelt from Mount Hermon would swell the river). The text emphasizes the extraordinary nature of their crossing, indicating that the river was not merely full, but had expanded beyond its normal confines, submerging its gidyâh (banks). This detail highlights the exceptional bravery, strength, and determination of these warriors, who were able to navigate and overcome such a formidable natural obstacle to align themselves with David. The context underscores their prowess and loyalty, portraying them as mighty men capable of remarkable feats.
### Related Words & Concepts
As noted in its definition, `{{H1428}}` is directly related to `{{H1415}}` (*gâdâh*), which also means "bank" or "shore" and is used more frequently to describe riverbanks or even the seashore. Other related concepts and terms include:
* `{{H5104}}` (*nahar*): The common Hebrew word for "river."
* `{{H4325}}` (*mayim*): "Water," often referring to large bodies of water.
* `{{H7858}}` (*sheteph*): "Flood" or "overflow," which describes the state of the river in [[1 Chronicles 12:15]].
* `{{H6556}}` (*perets*): "Breach" or "bursting forth," sometimes used in the context of overflowing waters.
The concept of a "bank" is intrinsically linked to the idea of a boundary or a limit. When a river "overflows its banks," it signifies a transgression of that natural boundary, leading to an expansion beyond its usual confines.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H1428}}` is primarily a descriptive geographical term, its singular appearance in [[1 Chronicles 12:15]] carries implicit theological weight within the broader biblical narrative. The crossing of the Jordan River is a recurring motif in Israelite history, often symbolizing divine intervention, a transition into a new phase, or the overcoming of seemingly insurmountable obstacles through faith (e.g., Joshua's crossing in [[Joshua 3]], Elijah and Elisha's crossings in [[2 Kings 2]]).
In the context of [[1 Chronicles 12:15]], the overflowing banks represent a significant natural barrier. The ability of the Gadites and Manassites to cross under such conditions speaks to their exceptional strength and valor, which can be interpreted as a divinely enabled capacity. Their commitment to David, God's anointed king, was so profound that no natural impediment could deter them. This act of overcoming the "banks" of the Jordan underscores the providential nature of their journey and the strength God granted to those who were aligning themselves with His purposes. It subtly reinforces the idea that God empowers His people to surmount even the most formidable natural challenges when pursuing His will.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H1428}}`, *gidyâh*, precisely denotes a "river brink" or "bank," sharing its core meaning with `{{H1415}}` (*gâdâh*). Its sole biblical occurrence in [[1 Chronicles 12:15]] vividly describes the Jordan River overflowing its banks, emphasizing the challenging conditions under which the Gadites and Manassites crossed to join David. This specific detail highlights their extraordinary strength, determination, and loyalty. Theologically, this act of crossing an overflowing river, a natural boundary, can be seen as a testament to the divine enablement and unwavering commitment of those who serve God's purposes, illustrating how even formidable natural obstacles can be overcome through valor and faith.
TRV