### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Vᵉdân**, represented by `{{H2051}}`, is understood to be a place in Arabia, possibly Aden. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The base definition suggests it may also be related to the name **Dan**. Its entire scriptural identity is defined by its singular mention in the context of international commerce.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2051}}` is found in Ezekiel's detailed lament over the commercial power of Tyre [[Ezekiel 27:19]]. In this prophecy, **Vᵉdân** is listed alongside **Javan** `{{H3120}}` as a trade partner that "occupied in thy fairs." The verse specifies that they brought valuable commodities such as "bright **iron**" `{{H1270}}`, **cassia** `{{H6916}}`, and **calamus** `{{H7070}}` to Tyre's market. The specific wording in the text connects this name to **Dan** `{{H1835}}`, highlighting a textual or geographic ambiguity.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of this commercial reference:
* `{{H1835}}` **Dân**: The name of one of Jacob's sons and the Israelite tribe descended from him. The dossier explicitly links this term to `{{H2051}}` in the verse, suggesting a significant association. **Dân** is referenced throughout the Old Testament as both a tribe and a geographic location from the northernmost point of Israel [[Judges 20:1]] to a site of idolatry [[2 Kings 10:29]].
* `{{H3120}}` **Yâvân**: Mentioned as trading alongside **Vᵉdân**, this term typically refers to Javan or the Greek people. **Yâvân** is listed as a trading partner of Tyre that dealt in the persons of men and vessels of brass [[Ezekiel 27:13]], establishing it as a key player in the ancient economy described by Ezekiel.
* `{{H1270}}` **barzel**: This word for **iron** is a principal trade good supplied by **Vᵉdân**. In scripture, **iron** is not only a practical material but also a powerful metaphor for strength, stubbornness, and oppression, such as the "iron furnace" of Egypt [[Jeremiah 11:4]] or the "bars of **iron**" representing formidable defenses [[Isaiah 45:2]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H2051}}` is rooted in its contribution to the prophetic narrative of Ezekiel.
* **Illustrator of Commerce:** The mention of **Vᵉdân** and its specific goods helps to construct a detailed picture of Tyre's immense wealth and extensive trade network, emphasizing the city's global economic importance in the ancient world.
* **Component of Judgment:** As part of a long list of Tyre's partners, **Vᵉdân** functions to magnify the scale of the city's impending downfall. The prophecy details that all of Tyre's company and merchandise will fall into the sea ([[Ezekiel 27:27]], [[Ezekiel 27:34]]), making the reference to **Vᵉdân** part of this comprehensive vision of judgment.
* **Geographic Anchor:** The name, likely referring to a real location in Arabia, grounds the prophecy in a specific historical and geographic reality, making the lament over Tyre more tangible and impactful for its audience.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2051}}` **Vᵉdân** is a name whose meaning is entirely derived from its singular appearance in a trade manifest within Ezekiel's prophecy against Tyre. While not a theologically complex term, it serves a crucial literary and prophetic purpose. It illustrates the vast reach of Tyre's commercial empire and, by extension, the totality of the divine judgment that would bring that empire to ruin. Its connection to **Dan** `{{H1835}}` and specific goods like **iron** `{{H1270}}` provides a glimpse into the interconnected world of the Old Testament.
TRV