The Hebrew name Deuel, represented by H1845, means known of God. It is used to identify a specific Israelite and appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. The name itself is derived from the Hebrew words for "known" and "God," embedding its meaning directly into its structure.
In the biblical narrative, H1845 is consistently used to establish the identity of Eliasaph's father. Eliasaph is a notable leader, identified as a prince H5387 of the children of Gad H1410 Numbers 7:42. He is also placed over the host H6635 of the tribe H4294 of Gad, a key military and administrative role Numbers 10:20. Deuel's name is mentioned in the official record of an offering H7133 his son made, which included oxen H1241, rams H352, and he goats H6260 as a sacrifice H2077 of peace offerings H8002 Numbers 7:47.
Several related words provide context for Deuel's identity and his son's role:
- H460 'Elyâçâph (Eliasaph): Meaning God (is) gatherer, this is the name of Deuel's son. He is recorded as a prince H5387 and leader within the tribe of Gad Numbers 1:14.
- H1410 Gâd (Gad): This refers to a son of Jacob and his corresponding tribe and its territory. Deuel's family is directly associated with the leadership of this tribe Numbers 10:20.
- H1121 bên (son): Defined as a son (as a builder of the family name), this word solidifies the paternal link between Deuel and Eliasaph in every biblical mention Numbers 1:14.
- H5387 nâsîyʼ (prince): This title, meaning an exalted one, i.e. a king or sheik, is applied to Deuel's son, Eliasaph, confirming his high status as a leader of the children of Gad Numbers 7:42.
The theological significance of H1845 is rooted in its definition and context:
- Divine Recognition: The name Deuel itself, meaning known of God, suggests that a person's identity and family line are acknowledged by God.
- Covenantal Order: Deuel is the father of a prince H5387 of an Israelite tribe Numbers 7:42. This places his lineage within the divinely structured order of the covenant nation, particularly in the organization of its host H6635 for service and battle Numbers 10:20.
- Legacy of Worship: The name is explicitly tied to acts of worship, as his son Eliasaph brings a significant sacrifice H2077 of peace offerings H8002 as part of the dedication of the tabernacle Numbers 7:47. This connects the identity of being "known of God" with a heritage of piety and participation in Israel's sacrificial system.
In summary, Deuel H1845 is more than a simple genealogical marker. While appearing only four times, the name's meaning, known of God, provides a theological lens through which to view his role as the father of Eliasaph, a prince H5387 of Gad. The name is intrinsically linked to the themes of divinely recognized leadership, tribal order within Israel's host H6635, and the presentation of sacred offerings, highlighting a legacy of both position and piety.
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