from דּוֹד; loving; Dodo, the name of three Israelites; Dodo.
Transliteration:Dôwdôw
Pronunciation:do-do'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun Dodo (דּוֹדוֹ, `{{H1734}}`) is derived from the root `{{H1730}}` (dôd). The primary meanings of this root include "beloved," "lover," or "uncle" (a kinsman). The reduplicated form in Dodo could intensify the underlying meaning, suggesting "most beloved" or "very loving." As a personal name, its semantic range is fixed to its referents, but the etymological connection provides a rich background of affection, endearment, and familial ties. It suggests a name bestowed with positive connotations, perhaps reflecting the parents' affection for the child or their hope for the child's character or standing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Dodo (דּוֹדוֹ, `{{H1734}}`) appears in the Old Testament referring to three distinct individuals, all of whom are presented as patriarchal figures:
1. **Dodo the Ahohite:** He is identified as the father of Eleazar, one of David's three most prominent mighty warriors.
* [[2 Samuel 23:9]]: "And after him was Eleazar the son of Dodo the Ahohite, one of the three mighty men with David when they defied the Philistines who were gathered there for battle, and the men of Israel had retreated."
* [[1 Chronicles 11:12]]: "And after him was Eleazar the son of Dodo, the Ahohite, who was one of the three mighty men."
This Dodo is significant due to his son's valor and close association with King David, indicating a family of considerable standing and martial prowess. The "Ahohite" designation likely points to his tribal or regional origin, possibly from Ahoah (`{{H263}}`).
2. **Dodo of Issachar:** He is identified as the grandfather of Tola, one of the minor judges of Israel.
* [[Judges 10:1]]: "After Abimelech, Tola the son of Puah, the son of Dodo, a man of Issachar, arose to save Israel; and he lived in Shamir in the hill country of Ephraim."
Here, Dodo is part of a lineage that produced a leader who "arose to save Israel," highlighting his role in the ancestral line of a divinely appointed deliverer.
3. **Dodo of Bethlehem:** He is identified as the father of Elhanan, another of David's mighty men, though listed among the "thirty" rather than the "three."
* [[2 Samuel 23:24]]: "Asahel the brother of Joab was one of the thirty; Elhanan the son of Dodo of Bethlehem, and Shammah the Harodite,"
* [[1 Chronicles 11:26]]: "Also the mighty men of the armies were Asahel the brother of Joab, Elhanan the son of Dodo of Bethlehem,"
This Dodo is linked to Bethlehem, King David's hometown, suggesting a potential regional or even familial connection to the royal lineage. His son's inclusion among David's elite warriors further underscores the family's contribution to the kingdom.
In all instances, Dodo is a paternal figure whose descendants achieve notable positions or perform significant acts for the nation of Israel, implicitly reflecting honor upon the family name.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{H1730}}` דּוֹד (dôd):** This is the direct root from which Dodo is derived. Its core meanings of "beloved," "lover," and "uncle" are crucial for understanding the nuance of the name. The use of `{{H1730}}` in the Song of Solomon to refer to "my beloved" (e.g., [[Song of Solomon 1:16]]) powerfully illustrates its affectionate dimension.
* **Love (אַהֲבָה, `{{H160}}` 'ahavah):** While Dodo is a proper noun, its etymological connection to "love" places it within the broader theological and ethical framework of biblical love, encompassing divine love for humanity and human love for God and neighbor.
* **Kinship and Lineage (מִשְׁפָּחָה, `{{H4940}}` mishpachah):** The "uncle" aspect of `{{H1730}}` connects Dodo to the vital biblical concept of family, clan, and tribal identity. Genealogies and family lines are paramount in the Old Testament for establishing identity, inheritance, and the fulfillment of divine promises.
* **Patronymics:** Like many biblical names, Dodo functions as a patronymic, identifying individuals through their paternal lineage. This practice highlights the importance of ancestry and the continuity of generations in God's redemptive plan.
### Theological Significance
The name Dodo, though a personal identifier, carries subtle theological resonance through its etymological root in "love" (`{{H1730}}`). While not directly teaching doctrine, its association with figures instrumental in Israel's national life—mighty warriors and a judge—can be seen through a theological lens. It may subtly suggest that those who are "beloved" or who embody "love" are often chosen and empowered by God for significant purposes in His unfolding plan. This aligns with the biblical motif of God's sovereign election and empowerment of individuals, often out of His love and for the good of His people.
The recurring appearance of this name, even for different individuals, might reflect a cultural value placed on the qualities of being "beloved" or "loving" within Israelite society. It could also signify a parental aspiration for their child to be cherished or to manifest a loving character. Ultimately, the meticulous recording of names and lineages in Scripture, including names like Dodo, underscores God's particular providence and His working through specific families and individuals to achieve His divine will, culminating in the lineage of the Messiah.
### Summary
Dodo (דּוֹדוֹ, `{{H1734}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun derived from the root `{{H1730}}` (dôd), signifying "love," "beloved," or "uncle." This etymology imbues the name with connotations of affection and familial connection. The Bible records three distinct individuals named Dodo: the father of Eleazar, one of David's mighty men ([[2 Samuel 23:9]], [[1 Chronicles 11:12]]); the grandfather of Tola, a judge of Israel ([[Judges 10:1]]); and the father of Elhanan, another of David's mighty men ([[2 Samuel 23:24]], [[1 Chronicles 11:26]]). In each instance, Dodo is a patriarchal figure whose descendants play significant roles in Israel's history, whether in military valor or national leadership, suggesting a lineage held in esteem. While a personal name, its root in "love" connects it to broader biblical themes of divine affection, human relationships, and the importance of lineage in God's redemptive narrative. The name implicitly reflects a cultural appreciation for being "beloved" or "loving," and subtly points to God's providential work through chosen individuals and families.
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