### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Yôwnâdâb**, represented by `{{H3122}}`, identifies two distinct men in the biblical record: an Israelite and a Rechabite. It appears **7 times** across **6 unique verses**. This name is associated with two contrasting legacies, one of shrewd, worldly counsel and another of enduring, generational obedience.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Yôwnâdâb** first appears as the `son` `{{H1121}}` of Shimeah, who was King David's `brother` `{{H251}}`. This **Yôwnâdâb** was a `friend` `{{H7453}}` to David's son Amnon and is described as a "very `subtil` `{{H2450}}` man" [[2 Samuel 13:3]]. He provided the scheme that led to Amnon forcing his sister Tamar. Later, this same **Yôwnâdâb** correctly reported to King David that only Amnon was `dead` `{{H4191}}` and not all the king's sons, as was initially feared ([[2 Samuel 13:32]], [[2 Samuel 13:35]]). The other **Yôwnâdâb** is presented as the `father` `{{H1}}` of the Rechabites. He `commanded` `{{H6680}}` his descendants to never `drink` `{{H8354}}` `wine` `{{H3196}}`, a command they faithfully obeyed for generations ([[Jeremiah 35:6]], [[Jeremiah 35:10]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the roles and relationships of the figures named **Yôwnâdâb**:
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch** (brother): This term establishes the royal connection of the first **Yôwnâdâb**, identifying him as the son of David's `brother` `{{H251}}`, Shimeah [[2 Samuel 13:3]].
* `{{H2450}}` **châkâm** (subtil): This word describes the character of Amnon's friend, **Yôwnâdâb**, highlighting his artful and cunning nature [[2 Samuel 13:3]].
* `{{H1}}` **ʼâb** (father): This title is central to the identity of the second **Yôwnâdâb**, whom the Rechabites revered as their forefather and whose command they honored [[Jeremiah 35:10]].
* `{{H6680}}` **tsâvâh** (command): This verb defines the action of **Yôwnâdâb** the Rechabite, who laid a lasting injunction upon his descendants [[Jeremiah 35:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of **Yôwnâdâb** is seen primarily through the story of the Rechabites and their faithfulness.
* **A Model of Obedience:** The unwavering obedience of the Rechabites to their `father` `{{H1}}` **Yôwnâdâb** is used by the `LORD` `{{H3068}}` as a powerful contrast to Israel's disobedience to God [[Jeremiah 35:10]].
* **The Power of a Commandment:** The legacy of **Yôwnâdâb** the Rechabite demonstrates how a patriarch's command could shape a family's identity and practice for centuries, setting a standard of faithfulness [[Jeremiah 35:6]].
* **A Lasting Legacy:** Because of their obedience, the `LORD` `{{H3068}}` of `hosts` `{{H6635}}` makes a promise that **Yôwnâdâb** the `son` `{{H1121}}` of Rechab would never `want` `{{H3772}}` a `man` `{{H376}}` to `stand` `{{H5975}}` before Him [[Jeremiah 35:19]]. This establishes a covenantal blessing in response to faithfulness.
### Summary
In summary, the name **Yôwnâdâb** `{{H3122}}` represents two very different figures. The first is a man of royal lineage known for his worldly subtlety and questionable counsel within David's court. The second is a patriarch whose commands fostered a legacy of obedience so profound that it was praised by God Himself and rewarded with a promise of perpetual standing. The name thus serves as a study in contrasts between temporary, shrewd influence and enduring, righteous heritage.
TRV