### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Gidʻônîy**, represented by `{{H1441}}`, means **warlike** and is the name of an Israelite. It appears **5 times** in **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The name's significance is not derived from any actions performed by Gideoni himself, but rather from his role as the father of a prominent tribal leader.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, all five appearances of `{{H1441}}` are in the book of Numbers and serve to identify the lineage of Abidan. He is consistently referred to as "Abidan the son of Gideoni" [[Numbers 1:11]]. This established Abidan's identity as the appointed **captain** `{{H5387}}` and **prince** `{{H5387}}` of the **children** `{{H1121}}` of **Benjamin** `{{H1144}}` [[Numbers 2:22]]. Gideoni's name is thus linked to the organization of Israel in the wilderness, as his son Abidan was the commander over the **host** `{{H6635}}` of the **tribe** `{{H4294}}` of Benjamin [[Numbers 10:24]]. Furthermore, Gideoni's lineage is connected to the sacred offerings for the altar, as Abidan presented a **sacrifice** `{{H2077}}` of **peace offerings** `{{H8002}}` on behalf of his tribe [[Numbers 7:65]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which Gideoni's name appears:
* `{{H27}}` **ʼĂbîydân** (father of judgment): This is the name of Gideoni's son, a **prince** `{{H5387}}` of the tribe of Benjamin. Every mention of Gideoni is for the purpose of identifying Abidan [[Numbers 7:60]].
* `{{H1144}}` **Binyâmîyn** (son of the right hand): This refers to the tribe to which Gideoni and his son belonged. Their roles and responsibilities are defined within the structure of the tribe of Benjamin [[Numbers 1:11]].
* `{{H5387}}` **nâsîyʼ** (an exalted one, captain, prince): This title is applied to Gideoni's son, Abidan, underscoring his position of authority as a leader chosen to represent the children of Benjamin [[Numbers 2:22]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1441}}` is understood through its connection to the establishment of order and worship in Israel.
* **Patrilineal Identity:** The name Gideoni serves to anchor the identity of a key leader, **Abidan** `{{H27}}`, within a specific family line. This highlights the biblical emphasis on lineage in establishing roles of authority within the tribes of Israel [[Numbers 1:11]].
* **Tribal Leadership:** Through his son, Gideoni is associated with both the civil and military leadership of the **tribe** `{{H4294}}` of **Benjamin** `{{H1144}}`. Abidan's role as **captain** `{{H5387}}` over the tribal **host** `{{H6635}}` shows Gideoni's family was integral to the nation's structure [[Numbers 10:24]].
* **Role in Consecration:** Gideoni's name is recorded in the context of the dedication of the altar, where his son presented a sacrificial **offering** `{{H7133}}` for his people. This act connects the house of Gideoni to the foundational moments of organized worship in Israel [[Numbers 7:65]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1441}}` is a name whose importance is entirely derived from the status of the person it identifies: the father of Abidan. While Gideoni himself is a background figure, his name is preserved in Scripture to establish the lineage of a designated **prince** `{{H5387}}` and **captain** `{{H5387}}` of the tribe of Benjamin. It is therefore a name tied to the principles of tribal leadership, military organization, and sacred worship during Israel's formation as a nation.
TRV