xlit Ădônîyâhûw corrected to ʼĂdônîyâhûw; from טוֹב and אֲדֹנִיָּה; pleasing (to) Adonijah; Tob-Adonijah, an Israelite; Tob-adonijah.
Transliteration:Ṭôwb ʼĂdônîyâhûw
Pronunciation:tobe ado-nee-yah'-hoo
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun `{{H2899}}` Ṭôwb ʼĂdônîyâhûw, transliterated as Tob-Adonijah, is a compound name derived from two distinct elements: טוֹב (ṭôwb), `{{H2896}}`, meaning "good, pleasant, agreeable, pleasing," and אֲדֹנִיָּהוּ (ʼĂdônîyâhûw), `{{H138}}`, meaning "my Lord is Yahweh." The combined form, as interpreted by the Strong's definition, conveys the sense of "pleasing (to) Adonijah." This suggests that the individual bearing this name was characterized by a quality of agreeableness or favorability, perhaps in the eyes of a contemporary figure named Adonijah, or that his very being was considered "good" in relation to someone bearing the name "Adonijah." It is a descriptive name, highlighting a positive attribute or relationship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Tob-Adonijah appears in the biblical narrative in a singular, yet significant, context. He is mentioned in [[2 Chronicles 17:8]] as one of the Levites sent by King Jehoshaphat of Judah. The verse states: "and with them Levites, Shemaiah, and Nethaniah, and Zebadiah, and Asahel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehonathan, and Adonijah, and Tob-Adonijah, and Tobiah; and with them priests, Elishama and Jehoram."
This passage describes Jehoshaphat's comprehensive reform efforts, which included sending out officials, Levites, and priests throughout the cities of Judah to teach the Law of the Lord to the people ([[2 Chronicles 17:9]]). Tob-Adonijah's inclusion in this esteemed group underscores his standing and reliability. As a Levite, his primary role would have been to facilitate worship and, crucially in this context, to instruct the populace in the divine statutes. His presence among those commissioned by the king indicates that he was considered knowledgeable, trustworthy, and capable of fulfilling this vital educational and spiritual mission. The fact that his name is listed alongside other prominent figures suggests he was a recognized and respected leader within the Levitical order during Jehoshaphat's reign.
### Related Words & Concepts
The name Tob-Adonijah is intrinsically linked to its constituent parts:
* טוֹב (ṭôwb): `{{H2896}}` - This root is foundational to biblical theology, appearing extensively throughout the Old Testament. It describes that which is "good" in a moral, aesthetic, or functional sense. God's creation is repeatedly declared "good" ([[Genesis 1:4]], [[Genesis 1:10]], [[Genesis 1:12]], etc.). It encompasses concepts of prosperity, well-being, and righteousness.
* אֲדֹנִיָּהוּ (ʼĂdônîyâhûw): `{{H138}}` - Meaning "my Lord is Yahweh," this name appears for several individuals in the Old Testament, most notably one of King David's sons ([[1 Kings 1:5]]). While it is highly improbable that the "Adonijah" referenced in Tob-Adonijah's name is David's son (given the time period), the name itself carries profound theological weight, affirming Yahweh's sovereignty and lordship.
Beyond its etymological components, Tob-Adonijah's role connects him to broader biblical concepts:
* **Levitical Service:** The Levites were divinely appointed for temple service and, as seen here, for teaching the Law ([[Deuteronomy 33:10]]).
* **Torah Instruction:** The emphasis on teaching the "Book of the Law of the Lord" highlights the centrality of God's revealed word for the spiritual health of the nation.
* **Jehoshaphat's Reforms:** Tob-Adonijah was a participant in a significant period of spiritual revival and educational outreach in Judah, aiming to restore fidelity to the covenant.
### Theological Significance
While Tob-Adonijah is a minor figure in terms of narrative prominence, his inclusion in Jehoshaphat's reform movement carries considerable theological weight. His very name, "pleasing (to) Adonijah," could be seen as a testament to his character, suggesting he was a person of integrity and favor, qualities essential for one entrusted with teaching God's Law.
More significantly, his participation in the widespread instruction of the Torah underscores the enduring biblical principle that knowledge of God's word is indispensable for true worship and righteous living. Jehoshaphat's initiative, in which Tob-Adonijah played a part, reflects a deep understanding that national well-being and spiritual fidelity are directly tied to adherence to God's commandments. This proactive dissemination of the Law was an act of faith, trusting that divine instruction would lead to obedience and blessing.
Tob-Adonijah's role exemplifies the importance of faithful stewardship of God's truth. He was not merely a passive recipient of the Law but an active dispenser of it, fulfilling the Levitical mandate to teach and preserve the covenant. His life, though briefly noted, serves as a quiet witness to the vital, often unsung, work of those who dedicate themselves to nurturing spiritual understanding and adherence to God's ways within the community of faith.
### Summary
Tob-Adonijah (`{{H2899}}`), a name meaning "pleasing (to) Adonijah," identifies a Levite who played a crucial role in King Jehoshaphat's religious reforms in Judah. Mentioned only once in [[2 Chronicles 17:8]], he was part of a select group of officials, Levites, and priests dispatched throughout the cities of Judah to teach the "Book of the Law of the Lord." His inclusion in this royal commission signifies his trustworthiness, knowledge, and dedication to the divine statutes. The name itself, combining טוֹב (`{{H2896}}` "good, pleasing") and אֲדֹנִיָּהוּ (`{{H138}}` "my Lord is Yahweh"), subtly points to a character of agreeableness or favor. Theologically, Tob-Adonijah's brief appearance highlights the critical importance of biblical education, the Levitical mandate to instruct, and the sovereign's responsibility to foster spiritual fidelity among the people, demonstrating that the dissemination of God's Word is foundational to national and individual righteousness.
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