or (Genesis 6:3) דּוּן; a primitive root; a straight course, i.e. sail direct; (come) with a straight course.
Transliteration:dîyn
Pronunciation:deen
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root H1777, transliterated as *dîyn* (or *dûn* in [[Genesis 6:3]]), carries a primary, though specific, semantic nuance of "a straight course, i.e. sail direct; (come) with a straight course." This definition emphasizes unhindered movement, directness, and a clear, undeviating trajectory. It evokes the imagery of a vessel moving purposefully and efficiently towards a destination without impediment or deviation. Metaphorically, this "straight course" can signify integrity of action, alignment with a specific purpose, or the steady, unswerving progression of a divine plan. While the root H1777 is more broadly known for its connection to "judgment" or "to judge," the provided definition highlights a distinct, foundational aspect related to direction and purposeful movement, particularly as it pertains to the context of [[Genesis 6:3]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The most prominent biblical instance where this specific nuance of H1777 (as *dûn*) is applied is found in [[Genesis 6:3]]. Here, the Lord declares, "My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years." While many translations render the verb as "strive" or "contend," the interpretation of *dûn* as "to take a straight course" or "to direct" offers a profound alternative. In this understanding, God's Spirit, which had been actively guiding and maintaining humanity on a righteous, "straight course," would no longer sustain that direct and unhindered influence due to humanity's pervasive wickedness. The divine Spirit's purposeful direction over humanity's moral trajectory was to be limited, leading to a period of escalating sin before the Flood. This specific interpretation of [[Genesis 6:3]] highlights a cessation of God's direct, unimpeded guidance, rather than merely a contention. It is important to note that the broader usage of H1777 across the Old Testament predominantly signifies "to judge," "to contend in judgment," or "to rule" (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 32:36]], [[1 Samuel 2:10]], [[Psalm 7:8]], [[Psalm 50:4]]). While these judicial contexts imply a "straight" or "just" decision, the "straight course" definition provided for this entry focuses on movement and direction, particularly as applicable to [[Genesis 6:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of a "straight course" or direct movement, as embodied by H1777 in this specific nuance, connects with several other vital Hebrew terms and theological concepts. The word `{{H3477}}` (yashar), meaning "straight, right, upright," often describes a morally correct path or a direct physical route. Similarly, `{{H1870}}` (derek), "way, path," is frequently used metaphorically to denote one's conduct or life's journey, which can be described as "straight" or "crooked" (e.g., [[Proverbs 4:11]], [[Psalm 1:6]]). The verb `{{H5288}}` (nachah), "to lead, guide," also conveys the idea of purposeful and direct guidance, often by divine hand. Furthermore, the imagery of "sailing direct" aligns with broader biblical themes of divine providence and the unhindered advancement of God's will and purposes in history, where His plans move forward without ultimate impediment, even in the face of human rebellion.
### Theological Significance
The interpretation of H1777 as "a straight course" carries significant theological implications, particularly in the pivotal context of [[Genesis 6:3]]. It underscores the active and purposeful presence of the Holy Spirit in guiding human affairs from the earliest stages of creation. The Spirit's "straight course" implies a divine intention for humanity to walk in alignment with God's will, a path characterized by righteousness, order, and direct communion. The declaration that God's Spirit would no longer maintain this "straight course" with humanity signifies a profound divine lament and a consequential shift in the relationship. It marks a moment where God's direct, unhindered guidance and moral alignment are limited due to humanity's pervasive corruption, leading to a period of escalating moral decay and ultimately, judgment. This concept highlights God's sovereign and purposeful direction in creation and history, and the tragic consequences that unfold when humanity resists or abandons that divine trajectory. It speaks to the delicate balance between divine grace and human responsibility, where the latter's failure can lead to a forfeiture of the former's direct and beneficial influence.
### Summary
The Hebrew root H1777 (dîyn), particularly as it relates to *dûn* in [[Genesis 6:3]], conveys the distinct and profound concept of "a straight course, i.e. sail direct; (come) with a straight course." This specific definition highlights directness, purpose, and unhindered movement, providing a unique lens through which to understand God's Spirit's interaction with humanity before the Flood. While H1777 is predominantly associated with "judgment" in other contexts, this specific nuance emphasizes the divine intention for humanity to follow a righteous, undeviating path. The cessation of the Spirit's "straight course" in [[Genesis 6:3]] signifies a pivotal moment where divine guidance is limited due to human wickedness, underscoring the theological significance of God's purposeful direction and the lamentable consequences of human deviation from His intended path.
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