### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Dîybôwn**, represented by `{{H1769}}`, is the name for three places in Palestine. Its definition suggests a meaning of "pining" and it is sometimes found in a shortened form or with **Gâd** `{{H1410}}` added to form Dibon-gad. The name appears **11 times** across **11 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1769}}` is primarily known as a city east of the Jordan. It was built `{{H1129}}` by the children of Gad `{{H1410}}` along with other cities like Ataroth `{{H5852}}` and Aroer `{{H6177}}` [[Numbers 32:34]]. Geographically, it is located within the plain `{{H4334}}` of Medeba `{{H4311}}` [[Joshua 13:9]]. However, it is also frequently associated with Moab `{{H4124}}`. The prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah depict Dibon as a Moabite city facing divine judgment, a place of weeping `{{H1065}}` and howling `{{H3213}}` where its inhabitants are called to come down `{{H3381}}` from their glory `{{H3519}}` as its strong holds `{{H4013}}` are destroyed `{{H7843}}` ([[Isaiah 15:2]], [[Jeremiah 48:18]]). After the exile, some children of Judah `{{H3063}}` also dwelt `{{H3427}}` in Dibon [[Nehemiah 11:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the context of `{{H1769}}` as a significant location:
* `{{H1410}}` **Gâd** (Gad): This tribe is directly credited with building `{{H1129}}` Dibon and is part of the compound name "Dibon-gad," marking an encampment site for Israel ([[Numbers 32:34]], [[Numbers 33:45]]).
* `{{H4124}}` **Môwʼâb** (Moab): Dibon is often portrayed as a key city within the territory of Moab, and its fate is tied to the prophecies of judgment pronounced against that nation ([[Isaiah 15:2]], [[Jeremiah 48:18]]).
* `{{H2809}}` **Cheshbôwn** (Heshbon): Another prominent city east of the Jordan, frequently listed alongside Dibon in territorial records and accounts of conquest ([[Numbers 21:30]], [[Joshua 13:17]]).
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This root is used to describe the action of the children of Gad in establishing Dibon as one of their cities, highlighting its role as a settlement [[Numbers 32:34]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1769}}` is rooted in its role within Israel's history and its relationship with neighboring nations.
* **Conquest and Settlement:** Dibon represents a tangible part of the territory conquered and settled by the tribes of Israel, specifically the children of Gad `{{H1410}}`, following their journey from Egypt [[Numbers 32:34]]. Later, it was part of the resettlement by Judah `{{H3063}}` [[Nehemiah 11:25]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The city serves as a specific example in prophecies of judgment against Moab `{{H4124}}`. Its destruction is foretold as a consequence of Moab's pride, with its glory `{{H3519}}` removed and its people made to sit `{{H3427}}` in thirst `{{H6772}}` [[Jeremiah 48:18]].
* **Historical Landmark:** As "Dibon-gad," it marks a specific location in the Israelites' wilderness travels, showing its place in the foundational narrative of the nation's journey to the promised land [[Numbers 33:45-46]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1769}}` is far more than a simple place name. It is a location of historical and prophetic importance, illustrating themes of settlement, territorial inheritance, and divine judgment. Its story reflects the shifting control of land between Israel and Moab, and it serves as a landmark in Israel's journey as a nation, from their initial encampments to their resettlement after the exile.
TRV