The Hebrew word ʻădîynôw, represented by H5722, is a proper name, Adino. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible. The base definition suggests it is probably from a word meaning slender, like a spear, and is rendered as "his spear; Adino."
The single biblical appearance of H5722 is in a list of King David's most celebrated warriors. Adino is named as "chief H7218 among the captains H7991" and is recorded as one of the "mighty men H1368" serving David. His defining act was a monumental feat of combat where he slew eight hundred men at one time 2 Samuel 23:8. This context establishes him as a figure of extraordinary martial prowess and leadership within David's inner circle.
The context of Adino's story is enriched by several key Hebrew words:
- H1368 gibbôwr (powerful; by implication, warrior, tyrant): This term identifies Adino as one of David's mighty men. The same word is used to describe God's own power, as in "The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save" Zephaniah 3:17.
- H7218 rôʼsh (the head... chief): This word establishes Adino's rank as chief among the captains. It is frequently used to denote leadership, prominence, or a beginning, such as when God is described as "exalted as head above all" 1 Chronicles 29:11.
- H7991 shâlîysh (a general of the third rank... captain): This term further defines Adino's military role as a captain. It is also used to describe high-ranking officers in other contexts, like the captains over the chariots of Egypt Exodus 14:7.
- H2491 châlâl (pierced (especially to death);... slain (man)): This word describes the result of Adino's actions, noting the eight hundred men he slew. The term is often used in prophetic judgments, as in "And the slain of the LORD shall be at that day from one end of the earth even unto the other" Jeremiah 25:33.
While the name Adino itself is unique, its context carries significant weight.
- Heroic Strength: Adino's story is an example of the heroic strength displayed by those loyal to God's anointed king. His feat is presented as a testament to the power that enabled David's men to secure the kingdom, contrasting with the understanding that the battle is not always to the strong Ecclesiastes 9:11.
- Leadership and Order: The mention of Adino as a H7218 chief among H7991 captains highlights the structured and hierarchical nature of David's army. This reflects a broader biblical theme of order and designated authority in accomplishing divine purposes.
- The Name as a Memorial: The very act of recording "the names H8034 of the mighty men H1368" 2 Samuel 23:8 serves as a memorial. A name H8034 in scripture often implies honor and character, securing a person's renown and legacy, as God promises to give his people "praise and fame" Zephaniah 3:19.
In summary, H5722 ʻădîynôw is more than just a name appearing once in scripture. It represents a key figure whose identity is tied to the establishment of David's kingdom. Found exclusively in the list of David's "mighty men" 2 Samuel 23:8, Adino embodies the concepts of extraordinary strength, leadership, and unwavering loyalty. His story contributes to the larger narrative of how God empowers his chosen servants to achieve victory and establish order.
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