### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Dôʼêg**, represented by `{{H1673}}`, is the name of a specific individual in the Old Testament. The word is defined as anxious, and identifies **Doeg**, an Edomite. It appears **6 times** across **5 unique verses**, exclusively in the accounts of 1 Samuel and the title of Psalm 52. His narrative role is that of an adversary to David.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Doeg** `{{H1673}}` is introduced as "the chiefest of the herdmen that belonged to Saul" [[1 Samuel 21:7]]. His defining moment comes when he reports David's visit to the priest Ahimelech at Nob [[1 Samuel 22:9]]. After Saul orders the execution of the priests and his own servants refuse, it is **Doeg** who carries out the command, turning and falling upon the priests [[1 Samuel 22:18]]. He slays eighty-five men on that day. David later laments that he knew when he saw **Doeg** there that he would "surely tell Saul" [[1 Samuel 22:22]], and the title of Psalm 52 directly links the psalm to the event of **Doeg** informing Saul [[Psalms 52:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are key to understanding Doeg's character and actions:
* `{{H5046}}` **nâgad** (to announce, expose): This word is used to describe Doeg's act of informing Saul about David's location. The verb's meaning of "to expose" or "tell" is central to his role in the narrative ([[Psalms 52:1]], [[1 Samuel 22:22]]).
* `{{H6293}}` **pâgaʻ** (to fall upon, impinge by violence): This verb is used specifically for the violent command given to Doeg by Saul. He was ordered to "fall upon the priests," an action he then carried out [[1 Samuel 22:18]].
* `{{H1984}}` **hâlal** (to boast, celebrate): The introduction to Psalm 52 connects Doeg's actions to boasting in mischief, questioning his self-glorification in evil deeds [[Psalms 52:1]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H1673}}` is tied to his role as a foil to David and an instrument of King Saul's paranoia.
* **Obedience to Tyranny:** Doeg's willingness to "fall upon the priests" when Saul's own men would not demonstrates a loyalty that supersedes moral or religious boundaries. He acts as the king's executioner without hesitation [[1 Samuel 22:18]].
* **Catalyst for Tragedy:** His decision to "tell" `{{H5046}}` Saul what he "saw" `{{H7200}}` directly leads to the massacre at Nob. David recognized this trait, stating he knew Doeg would surely report what he witnessed [[1 Samuel 22:22]].
* **Embodiment of Mischief:** Psalm 52 frames Doeg not just as an informant, but as a "mighty man" who boasts in "mischief" `{{H7451}}`. This portrays his actions as stemming from a malicious character, rather than simple duty [[Psalms 52:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1673}}` identifies Doeg the Edomite, a figure whose name is synonymous with betrayal and ruthless violence in the service of a corrupt king. While he appears in only a few verses, his actions—informing on David and slaughtering the priests of Nob—are a pivotal and dark moment in the narrative. He serves as a powerful example of how a person's choice to "tell" `{{H5046}}` and to obey an evil command can result in devastating consequences.
TRV