The Hebrew word Dûwmâh, represented by H1746, refers to a tribe and region of Arabia. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. The name is used to identify both a person, who is the progenitor of a tribe, and the territory associated with this group.
In the biblical narrative, H1746 is used in several distinct contexts. Genealogically, Dumah is listed as one of the sons of Ishmael, establishing him as the head of an Arabian tribe (Genesis 25:14; 1 Chronicles 1:30). Geographically, it is mentioned as the name of a city in the territory of Judah Joshua 15:52. It also serves as the subject of a prophecy in Isaiah, where the "burden H4853 of Dumah H1746" is declared, followed by a cry from Seir asking a watchman about the "night H3915" Isaiah 21:11.
Several related words from its most descriptive context in Isaiah 21:11 help to clarify its meaning:
- H4853 massâʼ (burden): This word, meaning "an utterance, chiefly a doom," introduces the prophecy concerning Dumah. It sets a tone of judgment or a weighty message about the region's future Isaiah 21:11.
- H8104 shâmar (watchman): Defined as "to hedge about... i.e. guard; generally, to protect, attend to," this root appears as "watchman" in the prophetic cry. The watchman is called upon to give an answer regarding Dumah's fate Isaiah 21:11.
- H3915 layil (night): This term is central to the question asked in the prophecy: "what of the night?" Isaiah 21:11. Its definition includes the figurative meaning of "adversity," linking the oracle of Dumah to a period of distress or uncertainty.
The significance of H1746 is tied to its role in marking identity and destiny in the Old Testament.
- Genealogical Marker: As a son of Ishmael, Dumah's name helps to map out the tribal landscape of the ancient Near East, fulfilling the biblical pattern of tracing nations to their ancestors Genesis 25:14.
- Geographical Identity: The name is tied to physical locations, including a city in Judah, demonstrating how a tribal name could also designate a specific place Joshua 15:52.
- Prophetic Subject: In Isaiah, Dumah becomes more than a place; it is the subject of a divine burden. The desperate cry to the watchman makes Dumah a symbol of a people facing a period of trial and seeking clarity about their future Isaiah 21:11.
In summary, H1746 functions in scripture as a multifaceted identifier. It is a personal name that establishes a tribal lineage, a place name that marks territory, and the subject of a divine oracle. Through its few appearances, Dûwmâh illustrates how a single name can carry genealogical, geographical, and prophetic weight within the biblical record.
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