### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Dôwday**, represented by `{{H1737}}`, is the proper name of an Israelite. Its base definition is "amatory," but it is used in scripture to identify a specific individual. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of **Dôwday** is in [[1 Chronicles 27:4]], within a list of King David's military commanders. The verse states that **Dodai** the Ahohite was over the military "course" for the second month. This context establishes him as a leader responsible for a division of twenty-four thousand men, sharing his command with Mikloth, who is identified as the "ruler" of the same course.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of **Dôwday's** role is clarified by related words used in the same verse:
* `{{H4256}}` **machălôqeth** (course): This word means "a section (of Levites, people or soldiers); company, course, division, portion." It describes the systematic way David organized the kingdom, whether it was dividing the Levites for temple service [[1 Chronicles 23:6]] or appointing priests to their duties [[2 Chronicles 31:2]].
* `{{H5057}}` **nâgîyd** (ruler): Meaning "a commander... captain, chief... leader... prince... ruler," this title is used for Mikloth, who served alongside **Dôwday**. The term denotes significant authority, as it is also used to describe David as the appointed captain over Israel [[2 Samuel 5:2]] and even has messianic implications, referring to a coming Prince [[Daniel 9:25]].
### Theological Significance
While the name **Dôwday** itself carries little theological weight, its context highlights key themes of order and governance within the kingdom of Israel.
* **Administrative Order:** The mention of **Dôwday** is part of a highly structured system of rotating military service. His command over a specific course `{{H4256}}` for a designated month illustrates the detailed organization established under David's rule [[1 Chronicles 27:4]].
* **Delegated Authority:** **Dôwday's** position demonstrates the principle of delegated leadership. He, along with the ruler `{{H5057}}` Mikloth, was entrusted with command, reflecting a hierarchical structure of service to the king and the nation.
* **Service and Duty:** The role filled by **Dôwday** represents the faithful service of individuals who contributed to the stability and function of the kingdom, each fulfilling their appointed duty within a larger, divinely sanctioned government.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1737}}` **Dôwday** is the name of an Israelite military commander mentioned once in scripture. His brief appearance is significant for what it reveals about the world he inhabited: a kingdom meticulously organized into divisions (`{{H4256}}`) and managed by appointed leaders (`{{H5057}}`). Although the man is a minor figure, his role provides a valuable glimpse into the administrative and military structure of King David's reign.
TRV