### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H5476}}` (*Çôwdîy*) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its meaning is directly derived from the root word `{{H5475}}` (*sôwd*), which carries a rich semantic range encompassing "council," "secret," "intimate counsel," "company," "secret assembly," "confidential talk," and "intimate group." Therefore, the name "Sodi" (`{{H5476}}`) fundamentally means "my confidant" or "one of secret counsel." It implies a person who is trusted, privy to intimate knowledge, or a participant in confidential discussions. The name itself suggests a character trait of trustworthiness, intimacy, or wisdom, as one who is capable of keeping or participating in secrets.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Sodi (`{{H5476}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Numbers:
* [[Numbers 13:9]]: "Of the tribe of Zebulun, Gaddiel son of Sodi."
In this sole occurrence, Sodi is identified as the father of Gaddiel, who was one of the twelve men chosen by Moses to scout the land of Canaan. Gaddiel, representing the tribe of Zebulun, was part of a pivotal mission that would determine the immediate future of the Israelite nation. While Sodi himself plays no active role in the narrative, his identity as the father of a tribal leader selected for such a critical task suggests a family of some standing or reputation within the tribe of Zebulun. The name "Sodi," meaning "confidant," might subtly reflect a family known for its trustworthiness or wisdom, qualities essential for those chosen to lead or represent their people.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the root from which `{{H5476}}` is derived, namely `{{H5475}}` (*sôwd*). This root word is crucial for understanding the deeper implications of the name "Sodi."
* **`{{H5475}}` (*sôwd*):** This noun frequently refers to an intimate circle or confidential deliberation. It can describe:
* **Divine Counsel:** God's secret or intimate counsel, often revealed to His prophets or those who fear Him. Examples include [[Jeremiah 23:18]] ("For who among them has stood in the council of the LORD?") and [[Amos 3:7]] ("Surely the Lord GOD does nothing unless He reveals His secret counsel to His servants the prophets."). This highlights God's sovereignty and His selective revelation of His plans.
* **Human Intimate Counsel:** A close circle of friends, advisors, or a secret assembly. For instance, [[Psalm 25:14]] states, "The secret of the LORD is with those who fear Him, and He will show them His covenant." [[Proverbs 3:32]] speaks of the "secret counsel" of God being with the upright. [[Proverbs 11:13]] warns against one who "goes about as a slanderer revealing secrets."
Concepts closely associated with `{{H5475}}` and thus implicitly with the name "Sodi" include:
* **Trust and Faithfulness:** Being a "confidant" inherently requires trust and loyalty.
* **Wisdom and Discretion:** Participation in "secret counsel" often implies the possession of wisdom and the ability to exercise discretion.
* **Intimacy:** Both in human relationships (close friends) and, most profoundly, in one's relationship with God.
### Theological Significance
While Sodi (`{{H5476}}`) as an individual is not a figure of direct theological import, the meaning embedded in his name, derived from `{{H5475}}` (*sôwd*), carries profound theological weight. The concept of "sôwd" illuminates several key aspects of biblical theology:
1. **God's Sovereignty and Revelation:** The divine "sôwd" emphasizes that God has His own counsel and plans, which are beyond human comprehension unless He chooses to reveal them. His revelation of His "secret counsel" to His prophets or those who fear Him underscores His initiative in communicating with humanity and the privileged position of those He chooses to confide in (e.g., [[Amos 3:7]]).
2. **Intimacy with God:** The phrase "the secret of the LORD is with those who fear Him" ([[Psalm 25:14]]) speaks to a deep, personal relationship with the Almighty. It suggests that obedience and reverence are prerequisites for entering into a more profound understanding of God's ways and His covenant. This is not merely intellectual knowledge but an experiential intimacy.
3. **The Value of Wise Counsel:** In human terms, the concept of "sôwd" highlights the importance of seeking and valuing wise, trustworthy counsel. Leaders and individuals are often encouraged to consult with those who possess discretion and integrity.
The name "Sodi," therefore, though belonging to an obscure figure, points to a heritage or an aspiration within a family to embody qualities of trustworthiness and intimacy, echoing the profound biblical truth that God Himself seeks those with whom He can share His "secret."
### Summary
The name Sodi (`{{H5476}}`) is a proper noun, appearing once in the biblical record as the father of Gaddiel, one of the spies sent into Canaan. Its core meaning, derived from `{{H5475}}` (*sôwd*), signifies "my confidant" or "one of secret counsel." This etymology imbues the name with connotations of trustworthiness, intimacy, and wisdom. While the individual Sodi remains largely unknown, the underlying concept of "sôwd" is central to understanding divine revelation, the privilege of intimacy with God for those who fear Him, and the value of wise counsel in human affairs. Thus, even a seemingly minor personal name can serve as a linguistic portal to deeper theological truths concerning God's sovereign plans and His desire for a close relationship with His people.
TRV