### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dâgân**, represented by `{{H1715}}`, refers to **grain** or **corn**. Its base definition denotes increase, connecting it to the concept of agricultural abundance. It appears 40 times across 40 unique verses, primarily signifying sustenance and prosperity derived from the land.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical texts, `{{H1715}}` is central to the theme of divine provision and covenantal promises. It frequently appears as part of a foundational trio of blessings: "corn, and... wine, and... oil" [[Deuteronomy 7:13]]. This grouping represents the complete agricultural bounty promised by God for obedience. The blessing given by Isaac to Jacob includes a prayer for "plenty of **corn** and wine" [[Genesis 27:28]] as a sign of divine favor and prosperity. Conversely, the absence of **dâgân** is a sign of judgment or calamity, as when a drought is called "upon the **corn**" [[Haggai 1:11]] or when the people mourn because "the **corn** is wasted" [[Joel 1:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the agricultural and economic life surrounding grain:
* `{{H8492}}` **tîyrôwsh** (must or fresh grape-juice (as just squeezed out); by implication (rarely) fermented wine; (new, sweet) wine): This word is the most common partner to **dâgân**, symbolizing the fruit of the vine. God promises to send His people "**corn**, and **wine**, and oil" to satisfy them [[Joel 2:19]].
* `{{H3323}}` **yitshâr** (oil (as producing light); figuratively, anointing): Representing the olive harvest, **yitshâr** completes the triad of essential produce. The blessing of the land includes gathering in "thy **corn**, and thy **wine**, and thine **oil**" [[Deuteronomy 11:14]].
* `{{H1637}}` **gôren** (a threshing-floor (as made even); by analogy, any open area): This is the place where grain was processed. In a rebuke, Israel is accused of loving a reward "upon every **cornfloor**" [[Hosea 9:1]], directly linking the place to the product.
* `{{H4643}}` **maʻăsêr** (a tenth; especially a tithe): **Dâgân** was a primary commodity for the tithe, a foundational practice of Israelite worship. The people of Judah brought "the **tithe** of the **corn** and the new wine and the oil unto the treasuries" [[Nehemiah 13:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1715}}` is tied directly to God's relationship with His people.
* **Covenant Provision:** The abundance of **dâgân** is a tangible sign of God fulfilling His covenant promises. God declares that He is the one who "gave her **corn**, and wine, and oil" [[Hosea 2:8]], even when the people did not acknowledge Him.
* **Firstfruits and Worship:** Giving the first and best of the **corn** was an act of worship and recognition of God as the ultimate provider. The law required giving the "firstfruit also of thy **corn**" to the priests [[Deuteronomy 18:4]].
* **Dependence and Sustenance:** The word highlights humanity's dependence on God for basic sustenance. In a time of famine, the people cried out, "Where is **corn** and wine?" [[Lamentations 2:12]], while in times of blessing, God promises to "call for the **corn**, and will increase it" [[Ezekiel 36:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1715}}` **dâgân** is more than just an agricultural term. It is a powerful symbol of life, blessing, and the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Its presence signified divine favor and prosperity, its use in tithes was a central part of worship, and its absence served as a stark reminder of judgment. The simple word for grain thus carries the theological weight of provision, faithfulness, and dependence on God.
TRV