formed like דּוּדַי; amatory; Dodai, an Israelite; Dodai.
Transliteration:Dôwday
Pronunciation:do-dah'ee
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1737}}` (Dôwday) is a proper noun, referring to an individual Israelite. Its base definition, "formed like `{{H1735}}` (dûwday); amatory," provides insight into its etymological roots. The word `{{H1735}}` (dûwday) refers to mandrakes, which were culturally associated with love, fertility, and aphrodisiac qualities (cf. [[Genesis 30:14-16]]). Therefore, the name `{{H1737}}` carries connotations of "amatory," "beloved," or perhaps "one associated with love/desire." It shares a root with `{{H1732}}` (dôwd), which can mean "beloved," "love," or "uncle." While `{{H1737}}` designates a specific person, its underlying semantic range points to concepts of affection, endearment, or attributes related to the symbolic power of mandrakes in ancient Near Eastern thought.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H1737}}` (Dôwday) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[1 Chronicles 27:4]]. In this passage, Dodai is identified as "Dodai the Ahohite," who was the head of the division for the second month of King David's army. His division consisted of twenty-four thousand men. The text further notes that "Mikloth was the chief officer of his division." This brief mention places Dodai within the administrative and military structure of David's kingdom, indicating a position of significant leadership and trust. As a proper noun, its meaning is primarily tied to the individual, but the etymological implications of "beloved" or "one associated with love" might subtly reflect a characteristic of the leader, perhaps his favor with the king, his popularity among his troops, or a personal quality. The inclusion of his name in these detailed lists underscores the meticulous record-keeping of the chronicler and the importance of each individual's role in the service of the kingdom.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connections for `{{H1737}}` (Dôwday) are:
* `{{H1735}}` (dûwday): Mandrakes. As noted, the name `{{H1737}}` is explicitly linked to this word in its base definition, drawing on the cultural understanding of mandrakes as symbols of love and fertility. The narrative in [[Genesis 30:14-16]] regarding Rachel and Leah's use of mandrakes highlights their perceived efficacy in matters of conception and desire.
* `{{H1732}}` (dôwd): Beloved, love, uncle. This is a foundational term from which `{{H1735}}` and, by extension, `{{H1737}}` derive their "amatory" or "beloved" connotations. The concept of "beloved" is central to biblical literature, often describing relationships between individuals (e.g., [[Song of Solomon 1:13]]) and, more profoundly, the covenantal love between God and His people (e.g., [[Isaiah 5:1]]).
* `{{H1730}}` (dûwd): Pot, basket. While seemingly unrelated, this word shares the same root as `{{H1732}}` and `{{H1735}}`, suggesting a broader semantic field that evolved to include concepts of affection and the plant associated with it.
These related terms collectively paint a picture of a name rooted in concepts of love, endearment, and perhaps even the natural world's symbolic connection to human desire and fruitfulness.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H1737}}` (Dôwday) is a proper noun for an individual, its etymological roots in "love" and "beloved" carry subtle theological resonance.
1. **Divine Providence and Individual Significance:** The inclusion of Dodai in the detailed lists of David's officers in Chronicles speaks to the biblical emphasis on God's meticulous ordering of history and His awareness of every individual. Even seemingly minor figures play a part in God's overarching plan. The very act of naming and recording signifies divine attention to human lives and endeavors.
2. **The Nature of Leadership and Service:** If the name Dodai indeed carries the meaning of "beloved" or "lovable," it might subtly hint at qualities desirable in a leader serving God's anointed king. Leaders who are "beloved" or inspire "love" (loyalty, affection) among their subordinates are often effective. This reflects the broader biblical principle that leadership, especially within God's people, should be characterized by qualities that foster unity and devotion, mirroring the love God has for His people.
3. **Symbolism of Love and Desire:** The connection to mandrakes and their association with love and fertility, while primarily cultural, can be seen in a broader biblical context as pointing to God as the source of all life, love, and fruitfulness. While Dodai's name does not directly teach theology, its underlying meaning subtly reminds us of the profound biblical themes of love (divine and human), relationship, and the perpetuation of life, all ultimately originating from the Creator.
### Summary
`{{H1737}}` (Dôwday) is a Hebrew proper noun, identifying an Israelite leader in King David's army, mentioned in [[1 Chronicles 27:4]]. Etymologically, the name is linked to `{{H1735}}` (dûwday), meaning "mandrakes," which were culturally associated with "amatory" qualities, love, and fertility. This connection implies that Dodai's name carried connotations of "beloved" or "one associated with love," drawing from the broader semantic field of `{{H1732}}` (dôwd, "beloved" or "love"). While its primary function is to identify an individual, the name's underlying meaning offers a subtle glimpse into the cultural understanding of names and their potential significance, reflecting themes of leadership, the importance of individuals in God's plan, and the pervasive biblical concept of love.
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