### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) is derived from the verb yādaʻ (`{{H3045}}`), which broadly signifies "to know." While yādaʻ encompasses a wide spectrum of knowledge, from intellectual apprehension to intimate, experiential acquaintance, dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) typically narrows this focus. Its core meaning refers to "knowledge" or "understanding," often implying a specific piece of information, a clear perception, or intellectual grasp. In some contexts, it can extend to denote "opinion" or "discernment," suggesting a more subjective or personal judgment based on one's understanding. It represents the *result* or *content* of knowing, rather than the act itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) appears sparingly in the Old Testament, yet its few occurrences are contextually rich and significant:
* In [[Job 10:7]], Job appeals to God, stating, "you know that I am not guilty" (literally, "you know my innocence"). Here, dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) serves as the object of God's knowledge, emphasizing the divine omniscience and perfect discernment regarding Job's moral standing. It underscores that God possesses complete and accurate knowledge of human character and actions.
* [[Job 32:6]] records Elihu's humble statement before speaking: "I am young in days, and you are old; therefore I held back and did not dare to tell you my opinion (dêaʻ)." In this instance, dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) clearly translates to "opinion" or "personal understanding," highlighting the subjective and potentially fallible nature of human insight, especially when contrasted with the wisdom of elders or, implicitly, divine wisdom.
* [[Proverbs 24:4]] states, "By knowledge (dêaʻ) the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches." This proverb connects dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) with the practical application of wisdom in establishing and enriching a household. It suggests that understanding, insight, and informed decision-making are foundational for prosperity and well-being, implying a practical, applied form of knowledge.
* The most profound theological usage appears in [[Isaiah 53:11]], concerning the Suffering Servant: "By his knowledge (dêaʻ) my righteous servant shall justify many, and he shall bear their iniquities." This verse is pivotal. The "knowledge" of the Servant could refer to His own perfect understanding of God's will and redemptive plan, which enables Him to accomplish atonement. Alternatively, it could signify the saving knowledge that humanity gains *of* the Servant (i.e., faith in Him and His atoning work) which leads to their justification. In either interpretation, dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) here is intrinsically linked to the mechanism of salvation and the redemptive work of the Messiah.
### Related Words & Concepts
dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) is part of a semantic field of Hebrew words related to knowing and understanding:
* **yādaʻ (`{{H3045}}`):** The root verb from which dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) is derived. As a verb, yādaʻ covers the full range of knowing, from intellectual apprehension to deep, personal, and even relational knowledge. dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) serves as a nominalization of this concept, focusing on the *content* or *result* of that knowing.
* **da'at (`{{H1847}}`):** Another common noun derived from yādaʻ (`{{H3045}}`), also meaning "knowledge" or "understanding." While often used synonymously with dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`), da'at (`{{H1847}}`) is far more prevalent in the Old Testament and frequently carries moral or ethical implications (e.g., "knowledge of good and evil"). dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) might carry a slightly more specific nuance of a particular piece of information or a personal judgment.
* **binah (`{{H998}}`):** Understanding, discernment, often implying the ability to distinguish between things, grasp complex ideas, or perceive the inner meaning of something.
* **hokmah (`{{H2451}}`):** Wisdom, which often encompasses not just intellectual knowledge but also practical skill, prudence, and the ability to apply knowledge for righteous and effective living.
These terms collectively highlight the multifaceted nature of knowledge in biblical thought, ranging from intellectual apprehension to moral discernment and practical wisdom.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) is profound and multi-layered:
* **Divine Omniscience:** In [[Job 10:7]], dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) powerfully affirms God's perfect and comprehensive knowledge. His dêaʻ is absolute, encompassing the entirety of creation and the innermost thoughts and intentions of humanity. This attribute assures believers of God's perfect justice and understanding.
* **Human Limitation:** Conversely, in [[Job 32:6]], dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) highlights the limited and subjective nature of human "opinion" or understanding. This serves as a reminder of the need for humility in human discourse and the ultimate reliance on divine wisdom.
* **Practical Wisdom for Life:** The linkage of dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) with the building of a prosperous life in [[Proverbs 24:4]] underscores the biblical emphasis on the practical value of knowledge. It implies that understanding God's principles and applying them wisely leads to flourishing and stability.
* **Redemptive Knowledge:** The most significant theological contribution of dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) is found in [[Isaiah 53:11]]. Here, the "knowledge" of the Suffering Servant is depicted as the means by which many are justified. This foreshadows the New Testament concept of salvation through knowledge of Christ, not merely intellectual assent, but a transformative, saving knowledge that leads to righteousness. It underscores that God's redemptive plan is intrinsically linked to the revelation and apprehension of truth concerning the Servant's atoning work. This dêaʻ is not merely information, but a salvific encounter.
### Summary
The Hebrew word dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`), derived from yādaʻ (`{{H3045}}`), denotes "knowledge," "understanding," or "opinion." Though infrequent in occurrence, its usage is highly significant, revealing distinct facets of knowing. It describes God's absolute and discerning knowledge ([[Job 10:7]]), contrasts with the limited and subjective nature of human opinion ([[Job 32:6]]), and highlights the practical value of understanding for a well-ordered life ([[Proverbs 24:4]]). Most profoundly, dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) in [[Isaiah 53:11]] points to the redemptive knowledge associated with the Suffering Servant, through whom many are justified. Thus, dêaʻ (`{{H1843}}`) encapsulates aspects of divine omniscience, human perception, and the crucial, saving knowledge revealed in God's plan of redemption.
TRV