from עָדִין; effeminacy; Adina, an Israelite; Adina.
Transliteration:ʻĂdîynâʼ
Pronunciation:ad-ee-naw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H5721 (ʻĂdîynâʼ) functions primarily as a proper noun, the personal name "Adina." Its etymological root is derived from H5720 (ʻādîn), which carries the core meaning of "delicate," "luxurious," or "effeminate." Thus, the name "Adina" inherently suggests qualities of softness, refinement, or even weakness. However, it is crucial to note that while the name's etymology points to these characteristics, the biblical text itself does not apply them descriptively to the individual bearing the name. Instead, H5721 is used exclusively to identify a specific person, whose actions and role in scripture stand in stark contrast to the name's inherent linguistic meaning. The semantic range is therefore narrow in its biblical application, confined to the identification of a historical figure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name "Adina" (H5721) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[1 Chronicles 11:42]]. Here, Adina is listed among the elite warriors known as David's mighty men (Hebrew: גִּבֹּרִים - `{{H1368}}`), a distinguished group renowned for their exceptional strength, courage, and loyalty to King David. The verse specifically identifies him as "Adina the son of Shiza the Reubenite, a chief of the Reubenites, and thirty with him."
The context of this single occurrence is highly significant. Adina is not merely a soldier but a "chief" (`{{H7218}}`) among his tribe, the Reubenites, and he commands a contingent of "thirty" men. This portrayal directly contrasts with the etymological implications of his name. A man named "Delicate" or "Effeminate" is, in the biblical narrative, a formidable warrior, a leader, and a key figure in David's military establishment. This juxtaposition forces the reader to consider the individual's character and actions as paramount, rather than being bound by the literal meaning of their given name. His inclusion in such an esteemed list underscores his valor and effectiveness, challenging any preconceived notions derived from the name's root.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is H5720 (ʻādîn), the root from which "Adina" is derived. H5720 describes something "delicate," "luxurious," or "effeminate," as seen in passages like [[Isaiah 47:1]] where it describes the "delicate" (or "tender") daughter of Babylon, or [[Deuteronomy 28:56]] referring to a "delicate" woman. The contrast between this root meaning and Adina's role as a warrior highlights a significant tension.
Other related concepts include the broader theme of names and their meanings in ancient Israel, where names often reflected aspirations, circumstances of birth, or even prophetic insights. However, the case of Adina illustrates that while names carried meaning, an individual's life and service could transcend or even redefine the implications of their name. Concepts of strength (`{{H2428}}` chayil), valor (`{{H1368}}` gibbor), and leadership (`{{H7218}}` ro'sh) are directly applicable to Adina's biblical portrayal, standing in stark opposition to the etymological sense of his name.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Adina's inclusion in David's mighty men, despite his name's etymological root, is multifaceted. Firstly, it underscores the biblical principle that God's assessment of an individual is based on their character, actions, and faithfulness, rather than on superficial or inherited labels. Adina's valor and leadership demonstrate that God uses individuals from all backgrounds and with all sorts of names, equipping them for service according to His purpose.
Secondly, it subtly points to the transformative power of divine calling and service. A man whose name implies weakness or delicacy is found among the strongest and most courageous. This can be seen as a microcosm of God's ability to take what might be considered weak or insignificant by human standards and use it for His glory, demonstrating His strength through human vessels (cf. [[2 Corinthians 12:9]]). Adina's story is a testament to the fact that one's identity in God's service is defined by divine enablement and faithful response, rather than by the linguistic nuances of a given name. It emphasizes that God looks at the heart and the deeds, not merely the outward appearance or a name's literal meaning.
### Summary
H5721 (ʻĂdîynâʼ) is the proper name "Adina," derived from H5720 (ʻādîn), meaning "delicate" or "effeminate." Despite this etymological root, the sole biblical occurrence in [[1 Chronicles 11:42]] presents Adina as a prominent and powerful warrior, a chief among the Reubenites and one of David's mighty men. This striking contrast between the name's inherent meaning and the individual's documented role highlights a significant theological truth: God's use of individuals is not constrained by human perceptions or the literal meaning of their names, but by their character, faithfulness, and the purpose to which He calls them. Adina's life serves as a powerful reminder that true strength and leadership are defined by action and divine empowerment, transcending any etymological implications.
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