a doubtful root; to walk gently; go (softly, with).
Transliteration:dâdâh
Pronunciation:daw-daw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma דָּדָה (dâdâh), Strong's number `{{H1718}}`, is described as a "doubtful root," signifying its rarity and the scholarly uncertainty surrounding its precise etymology or primary derivation. Despite this, its core semantic range is consistently understood to convey the idea of "to walk gently," "to go softly," or "to move with a measured, deliberate pace." This implies a manner of movement characterized by carefulness, tenderness, or a lack of haste. It suggests a processional or accompanying walk rather than a forceful or rapid advance. The nuance of "softness" might also allude to a reverent or subdued manner of progression.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word דָּדָה (dâdâh) appears only once in the Masoretic Text, making it a hapax legomenon. This singular occurrence is found in:
* **[[Psalm 42:4]]**: "These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go with the multitude, leading them to the house of God, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng."
In this poignant psalm of lament and longing, the psalmist recalls a past time of joyous worship. The phrase "I used to go" (אֶדַּדֵּם - 'eddadēm, a Hithpael form of dâdâh) describes the psalmist's participation in a religious procession or pilgrimage to the Temple. The context of "leading them to the house of God, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng" suggests a communal, orderly, and celebratory movement. The "gentle" or "soft" aspect of dâdâh, when applied to this context, could imply a reverent and deliberate procession, a measured pace appropriate for entering the sacred space, or even the act of accompanying the multitude in a supportive, guiding manner. It evokes an image of a solemn yet joyful pilgrimage, contrasting sharply with the psalmist's current state of distress and separation from God's presence. The Hithpael stem often denotes reflexive or reciprocal action, or a repeated, habitual action, which fits the description of a regular pilgrimage.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given its singular occurrence, direct cognates for דָּדָה (dâdâh) are not readily apparent. However, its semantic field overlaps with other Hebrew words for "walking" or "going," each carrying distinct nuances:
* `{{H1980}}` הָלַךְ (hâlak): The most common verb for "to walk" or "to go," often used in a general sense, but also for moral conduct ("walking with God").
* `{{H3212}}` יָלַךְ (yâlak): Similar to hâlak, conveying general movement, often used for journeys or progression.
* `{{H6440}}` פָּעַם (pa'am): Primarily "to beat" or "to strike," but also relates to "foot" or "step," implying a rhythmic or deliberate tread.
The concept conveyed by דָּדָה (dâdâh) in [[Psalm 42:4]] also relates to:
* **Pilgrimage:** The act of journeying to a sacred site, a common practice in ancient Israel.
* **Procession:** An organized, often ceremonial, movement of people, frequently associated with religious festivals and worship.
* **Communal Worship:** The collective participation of the people in religious rites and celebrations.
### Theological Significance
Though a rare word, the single occurrence of דָּדָה (dâdâh) in [[Psalm 42:4]] holds significant theological weight within its context. It paints a picture of past worship that is deeply cherished by the psalmist. The "gentle" or "processional" walk to the house of God signifies:
1. **Reverence in Worship:** The measured pace suggests a respectful and deliberate approach to God's presence, highlighting the sanctity of the Temple and the seriousness of encountering the Divine.
2. **Joyful Communal Experience:** The word describes a shared journey "with the multitude," emphasizing the corporate nature of Israelite worship. The gentle movement is accompanied by "shouts of joy and thanksgiving," indicating that reverence does not preclude fervent celebration.
3. **The Ideal of Past Worship:** For the psalmist, this memory serves as a stark contrast to his current spiritual desolation. The recollection of this orderly, joyful, and communal walk to God's house underscores the beauty and richness of a vibrant relationship with God, intensifying his longing for restoration.
4. **The Journey of Faith:** Metaphorically, the "gentle walk" can represent the journey of faith itself – a deliberate, sustained progression towards God, often undertaken in community, marked by both reverence and joy.
### Summary
The Hebrew word דָּדָה (dâdâh), Strong's number `{{H1718}}`, though a "doubtful root" and a hapax legomenon, carries the nuanced meaning of "to walk gently," "to go softly," or "to move with a measured, deliberate pace." Its sole appearance in [[Psalm 42:4]] describes the psalmist's cherished memory of participating in a reverent and joyful procession to the house of God. This singular usage illuminates the communal, orderly, and celebratory nature of ancient Israelite worship, emphasizing a deliberate and respectful approach to the Divine. The theological significance lies in its portrayal of an ideal worship experience, highlighting the reverence, joy, and communal spirit that characterize a vibrant relationship with God, and serving as a poignant memory for the psalmist in his time of distress.
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