the same as דּוּמָה; Dumah, a tribe and region of Arabia; Dumah.
Transliteration:Dûwmâh
Pronunciation:doo-maw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The lemma H1746, Dûwmâh (דּוּמָה), functions exclusively as a proper noun in the Hebrew Bible. Its core meaning is therefore tied directly to its identity as a specific geographical location and a distinct people group. While the name itself may etymologically derive from a root meaning "silence" or "stillness" (related to דָּמַם, `{{H1826}}`), in its biblical usage as H1746, it denotes a tribal entity and an associated region in Arabia. Its semantic range is thus confined to its proper noun designation, referring to a specific historical and geographical entity rather than an abstract concept or quality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Dûwmâh (H1746) appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, each instance providing crucial contextual insight:
* **[[Genesis 25:14]]**: Here, Dumah is listed as one of the twelve sons of Ishmael, through whom the Ishmaelite tribes descended. This occurrence places Dumah firmly within the genealogical framework of the Abrahamic covenant, specifically through Ishmael's lineage. The context is a genealogical record, emphasizing the origin of a significant Arabian tribe and highlighting the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham concerning Ishmael's numerous descendants ([[Genesis 17:20]]).
* **[[Isaiah 21:11]]**: This occurrence is part of a prophetic oracle, titled "The oracle concerning Dumah." The oracle is addressed to Seir (Edom), posing the enigmatic question, "Watchman, what of the night?" This suggests a time of darkness, uncertainty, or impending judgment. The brief and cryptic nature of the oracle indicates a cry for understanding or revelation amidst a period of distress. The mention of Dumah in this context links it geographically with Edom, placing it within the broader Arabian desert region, subject to divine prophetic pronouncements. This prophetic context implies that even remote or seemingly insignificant regions are under God's sovereign gaze and subject to His unfolding plan.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{H1826}}` דָּמַם (dâmam)**: This verb means "to be silent," "to be still," or "to cease." While H1746 is a proper noun, its etymological root is likely connected to this verb. This linguistic connection could suggest a possible original meaning for the place or tribe, perhaps related to a quiet or desolate region, or a people known for stillness. However, this connection is etymological and not explicitly expounded in the biblical text for H1746's usage.
* **Ishmaelites**: As one of Ishmael's sons, Dumah is intrinsically linked to the broader Ishmaelite confederation. The Ishmaelites were a significant group in the history of the ancient Near East, often interacting with Israel, sometimes in conflict, sometimes in trade.
* **Arabia/Desert**: The geographical location of Dumah places it firmly within the Arabian desert. This region is frequently associated in biblical narratives with nomadic tribes, important trade routes, and sometimes, as a setting for divine encounters or pronouncements of judgment in prophecy.
* **Seir/Edom**: In [[Isaiah 21:11]], Dumah is addressed in conjunction with Seir/Edom, highlighting a geographical and perhaps political proximity or shared destiny in the prophetic landscape of the ancient Near East.
### Theological Significance
The primary theological significance of Dûwmâh (H1746) lies in its inclusion within God's comprehensive knowledge and sovereign plan, even for nations and peoples outside the direct covenant line of Israel.
* In **[[Genesis 25:14]]**, Dumah's presence in the Ishmaelite genealogy underscores the biblical narrative's expansive scope, acknowledging the origins of various peoples and their place in the broader human family descending from Abraham. It subtly demonstrates the breadth of God's blessing, extending, albeit differently, even to Ishmael's descendants as promised to Abraham ([[Genesis 17:20]]). This highlights God's faithfulness to all His promises.
* In **[[Isaiah 21:11]]**, the oracle concerning Dumah reveals that God's prophetic word extends to all nations, not exclusively to Israel. The "oracle concerning Dumah" signifies divine awareness and a message directed even to distant desert tribes. The cryptic nature of the oracle ("Watchman, what of the night?") may suggest a period of waiting, uncertainty, or impending judgment, emphasizing that all peoples are accountable before God and subject to His unfolding purposes in history. It powerfully illustrates the universal scope of God's prophetic revelation and His ultimate control over all nations and their destinies.
### Summary
Dûwmâh (H1746) is a proper noun identifying a specific tribe and region in Arabia, tracing its lineage back to Ishmael. Its two biblical occurrences are significant: in [[Genesis 25:14]], it establishes Dumah's place within the patriarchal genealogies, affirming the breadth of Abraham's descendants and God's faithfulness to His promises; and in [[Isaiah 21:11]], it serves as the recipient of a divine oracle, demonstrating God's universal sovereignty and the global reach of His prophetic word to all nations. While its name may etymologically connect to "silence," its biblical role is as a named entity, serving to illustrate the comprehensive nature of God's historical and redemptive plan for all peoples.
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