### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼAmnôwn**, represented by `{{H550}}`, means **faithful**. It appears **28 times** across **22 unique verses**. It is derived from the word אָמַן and is famously the name of a son of David.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H550}}` is primarily associated with King David's firstborn son, who was born in Hebron ([[2 Samuel 3:2]], [[1 Chronicles 3:1]]). The main account of his life details a dark chapter in David's family. Amnon developed a love for his half-sister Tamar [[2 Samuel 13:1]] and became so vexed that he made himself sick [[2 Samuel 13:2]]. Following the counsel of his friend Jonadab `{{H3122}}`, Amnon feigned illness to lure Tamar to his chambers, where he forced her [[2 Samuel 13:22]]. Afterward, his love turned to an even greater hatred [[2 Samuel 13:15]]. This act led his brother Absalom to hate him, culminating in Absalom commanding his servants to kill Amnon at a feast [[2 Samuel 13:28]]. A different Amnon is mentioned as a son of Shimon in [[1 Chronicles 4:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are central to understanding the tragic story of Amnon:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word establishes Amnon’s identity as the **son** of David and a prince, which is a status he exploits in his scheme [[2 Samuel 13:4]].
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch** (brother): This word highlights the familial betrayal. Amnon is the **brother** of both Tamar, whom he violates, and Absalom, who murders him in revenge ([[2 Samuel 13:20]], [[2 Samuel 13:22]]).
* `{{H269}}` **ʼâchôwth** (sister): Tamar's identity as a **sister** is at the heart of the narrative, defining the relationship that Amnon profanes [[2 Samuel 13:1]].
* `{{H157}}` **ʼâhab** (to have affection for, love): The story begins with the statement that Amnon **loved** Tamar, but this affection quickly reveals itself as selfish lust ([[2 Samuel 13:1]], [[2 Samuel 13:4]]).
* `{{H8130}}` **sânêʼ** (to hate): This word marks the story's turning points. Amnon **hated** Tamar after assaulting her, and Absalom **hated** Amnon for what he had done ([[2 Samuel 13:15]], [[2 Samuel 13:22]]).
* `{{H6031}}` **ʻânâh** (to afflict, force, defile): This term describes Amnon's sinful act against Tamar, as he **forced** his sister [[2 Samuel 13:22]].
### Theological Significance
The story of `{{H550}}` carries significant thematic weight.
* **Tragic Irony:** Amnon's name means "faithful," yet his character is defined by profound unfaithfulness to his family and to God's law. His actions are a direct contradiction of the name he carries.
* **The Consequences of Sin:** The narrative serves as a stark illustration of sin's destructive power. Amnon's uncontrolled lust leads to deception, violence, hatred, and ultimately his own murder [[2 Samuel 13:29]], setting off a chain of rebellion and sorrow in David's household.
* **Corrupted Family Bonds:** The account shows the devastating perversion of family relationships. The love of a brother for a sister is twisted into a destructive force, and another brother's loyalty is replaced by vengeful hatred, shattering the family unit.
### Summary
In summary, **ʼAmnôwn** `{{H550}}` is a name that, despite its meaning of "faithful," is inextricably linked to one of the most tragic episodes in the Old Testament. The story of David's firstborn son is a powerful cautionary tale about the consequences of lust, the corruption of familial love into hatred, and the devastating ripple effect of a single sinful act within a family and a kingdom.
TRV