patronymically from דָּן; a Danite (often collectively) or descendants (or inhabitants) of Dan; Danites, of Daniel
Transliteration:Dânîy
Pronunciation:daw-nee'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1839}}` (Dânîy) is a gentilic adjective, primarily functioning as a patronymic derived from the proper noun `{{H1835}}` (Dân). Its fundamental meaning denotes an individual or, more commonly, the collective descendants and inhabitants associated with the tribe of Dan. As such, it translates most frequently as "Danite" or "of Dan." The term encapsulates not merely a lineage but also a tribal identity within the confederation of Israel, signifying membership in the offspring of Jacob's fifth son, Dan. While the definition includes "of Daniel," this usage is exceptionally rare and secondary; the overwhelming application of `{{H1839}}` is in reference to the tribe.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H1839}}` appears numerous times throughout the Old Testament, predominantly in books detailing Israel's tribal organization, conquest, and early history.
In the book of Numbers, `{{H1839}}` is used in the context of the tribal censuses, establishing the numerical strength and identity of the Danites within the Israelite camp ([[Numbers 26:42]], [[Numbers 26:43]]). These passages underscore their inclusion and standing as one of the twelve tribes.
The most extensive and significant occurrences are found in the book of Judges, where the Danites play a pivotal role in several narratives. [[Judges 13:2]] identifies Manoah, the father of Samson, as a Danite, setting the stage for the story of this prominent judge. The narrative in Judges 18 vividly portrays the tribe's struggle to secure their allotted inheritance, leading to their migration northward and the conquest of Laish, which they renamed Dan ([[Judges 18:1]], [[Judges 18:11]], [[Judges 18:12]], [[Judges 18:16]], [[Judges 18:23]], [[Judges 18:25]], [[Judges 18:26]], [[Judges 18:30]]). This chapter also critically details their establishment of an idolatrous cult, a significant act of apostasy. Later, [[Judges 5:17]] briefly notes the Danites' failure to join the battle against Sisera, implying a degree of tribal independence or detachment.
In the historical books, `{{H1839}}` surfaces in contexts like [[1 Chronicles 12:35]], where Danite warriors are listed among those who joined David at Hebron, demonstrating their continued, albeit sometimes peripheral, participation in the national life of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is `{{H1835}}` (Dân), which refers to the patriarch himself, the tribe, and the geographical region or city named after him. The city of Dan (`{{H1836}}`) became a significant landmark, marking the northernmost boundary of Israel ("from Dan to Beersheba"). The concept of tribal identity is central to understanding `{{H1839}}`, as it situates the Danites within the broader framework of the twelve tribes of Israel, each with its unique inheritance, responsibilities, and historical trajectory. Other related concepts include:
* **Inheritance and Land:** The struggle of the Danites to possess their allotted territory in the south and their subsequent migration highlights the challenges of the conquest and the importance of divine promises regarding the land.
* **Idolatry and Apostasy:** The establishment of the idolatrous shrine at Dan, complete with a graven image and a Levitical priest ([[Judges 18:30-31]]), becomes a recurring motif of spiritual declension in Israel, a "sin of Dan" that persisted for centuries ([[1 Kings 12:29]]).
* **Judgeship:** Samson, the most famous Danite, embodies both the potential for divine empowerment and the tragic consequences of human weakness and disobedience.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1839}}` and the tribe it represents is multifaceted.
Firstly, the Danites' inclusion in the censuses and genealogies affirms their place within the covenant people of God. Despite their later struggles and failures, they were part of the nation chosen by Yahweh, recipients of His promises and participants in His redemptive plan for Israel.
Secondly, the narrative of the Danites, particularly in Judges, serves as a sobering theological commentary on the consequences of disobedience and spiritual compromise. Their failure to fully dispossess the inhabitants of their original inheritance ([[Judges 1:34]]) led to their displacement and subsequent search for new territory. More profoundly, their establishment of a prominent center of idolatry at Dan represents a deep spiritual apostasy, a turning away from the exclusive worship of Yahweh. This act of syncretism profoundly impacted the spiritual landscape of the northern kingdom for generations.
Thirdly, the story of Samson, a Danite Nazirite, illustrates God's continued, albeit often mysterious, work through imperfect vessels. Despite the tribe's spiritual failings, God raised up a deliverer from among them, demonstrating His sovereignty and His commitment to His people even when they are unfaithful.
Finally, the notable omission of the tribe of Dan from the list of the sealed tribes in [[Revelation 7:5-8]] in the New Testament has prompted significant theological discussion. While `{{H1839}}` is an Old Testament term, this later absence is often interpreted as a theological reflection on the tribe's historical trajectory of apostasy and association with idolatry, serving as a cautionary tale within the broader biblical narrative of faithfulness and judgment.
### Summary
`{{H1839}}` (Dânîy) precisely identifies an individual or, more commonly, the collective members of the tribe of Dan. This term encapsulates the complex history of one of Israel's twelve tribes, a history marked by their initial struggles for territorial inheritance, a significant northward migration, and, most notably, their establishment of a lasting center of idolatry. The Danites' narrative in Scripture offers profound theological insights into covenant identity, the perilous consequences of disobedience and spiritual apostasy, and God's enduring sovereignty in working through His people, even amidst their profound failings. The term `{{H1839}}` thus serves as a linguistic key to understanding a vital, albeit often tragic, thread in the tapestry of Israel's early history.
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