### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Dardaʻ**, represented by `{{H1862}}`, means "pearl of knowledge." It appears only **1 times** in **1 unique verses** in the Bible. Dardaʻ is identified as an Israelite known for his exceptional wisdom.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of **Dardaʻ** is in a passage describing profound wisdom. He is listed among a group of famously wise individuals, including Ethan the Ezrahite, Heman, and Chalcol. The text states that a certain man was wiser `{{H2449}}` than all these men `{{H120}}`, who are identified as the sons `{{H1121}}` of Mahol `{{H4235}}`. This establishes **Dardaʻ** as a benchmark for human wisdom, a figure whose reputation was so significant that surpassing him was a mark of extraordinary insight, contributing to a fame `{{H8034}}` that spread to all the surrounding nations `{{H1471}}` [[1 Kings 4:31]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for Dardaʻ's role as a man of wisdom:
* `{{H2449}}` **châkam**: This primitive root means **to be wise** in mind, word, or action. It is the central quality associated with Dardaʻ, as his name is used to measure another’s superior wisdom [[1 Kings 4:31]]. The goal of receiving instruction is so that one "mayest be wise" [[Proverbs 19:20]].
* `{{H1968}}` **Hêymân**: Meaning **faithful**, Heman was a contemporary of Dardaʻ, listed alongside him as one of the wisest men of the era [[1 Kings 4:31]]. He is also identified as "Heman the Ezrahite" [[Psalms 88:1]] and a prominent Levitical singer [[1 Chronicles 6:33]].
* `{{H387}}` **ʼÊythân**: Meaning **permanent**, Ethan is another wise man mentioned in the same list as Dardaʻ [[1 Kings 4:31]]. Like Heman, he is called "the Ezrahite" and is associated with writing psalms [[Psalms 89:1]].
### Theological Significance
The mention of `{{H1862}}` illuminates several key themes, primarily centered on wisdom.
* **A Benchmark of Wisdom:** Dardaʻ, along with Ethan, Heman, and Chalcol, serves as a human standard by which exceptional wisdom is measured. His name is synonymous with a high level of intellectual achievement recognized in his time [[1 Kings 4:31]].
* **Wisdom and Renown:** The context directly links profound wisdom `{{H2449}}` with widespread fame `{{H8034}}`. The reputation of Dardaʻ and his companions was such that it was known among "all nations round about," indicating that true wisdom garners honor and respect [[1 Kings 4:31]].
* **A Brotherhood of Sages:** Dardaʻ is not presented as an isolated wise man but as one of the "sons of Mahol" [[1 Kings 4:31]]. This association with other notable figures like Heman `{{H1968}}`, Chalcol `{{H3633}}`, and Ethan `{{H387}}` suggests a community or family known for their collective wisdom.
### Summary
In summary, **Dardaʻ** `{{H1862}}` is a figure whose name, meaning "pearl of knowledge," is tied directly to the theme of wisdom in scripture. Though mentioned only once, his inclusion in [[1 Kings 4:31]] as a standard of comparison highlights his considerable reputation. He stands alongside other wise men as a testament to human intellect, whose fame was a known quantity in the ancient world, ultimately serving to magnify the God-given wisdom of others.