from עָדַן; pleasure; Adnah, the name of two Israelites; Adnah.
Transliteration:ʻAdnâh
Pronunciation:ad-naw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word עַדְנָה (ʻAdnâh), Strong's `{{H5734}}`, is primarily a proper noun, serving as the name of two distinct individuals in the Old Testament. Its base definition indicates derivation from the root עָדַן (`{{H5727}}`), which conveys the sense of being "soft, delicate, pleasant, or luxurious." Consequently, the underlying semantic range of עַדְנָה points etymologically to "pleasure," "delight," or "luxury." While the word עַדְנָה itself functions solely as a personal name in biblical texts, its etymological root imbues it with connotations of pleasantness or delight, suggesting a potential aspiration or characteristic associated with the bearer of the name by their parents.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name עַדְנָה (`{{H5734}}`) appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, referring to two different individuals:
1. **A Manassite Commander:** In [[1 Chronicles 12:20]], Adnah is identified as a commander of a thousand from the tribe of Manasseh who joined David at Ziklag. This occurred during the critical period when David was still a fugitive from King Saul, and men of valor and distinction were rallying to his cause. The context highlights Adnah's loyalty and strategic importance, aligning himself with the future king of Israel. His presence among the "mighty men" underscores his capability and influence.
2. **A Commander under Jehoshaphat:** In [[2 Chronicles 17:14]], Adnah is described as a chief commander under King Jehoshaphat of Judah. He is noted for having under his command 300,000 mighty men of valor from Judah. This passage details Jehoshaphat's military reforms and the strength of his army, which served to protect Judah and instill fear in surrounding nations. Adnah's significant military leadership suggests a role in maintaining the security and prosperity of the kingdom during Jehoshaphat's righteous reign.
In both instances, the individuals named Adnah hold positions of military leadership and are associated with strength, loyalty, and the service of righteous kings. While their names etymologically suggest "pleasure," their biblical roles are defined by their active participation in the defense and administration of Israelite affairs.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word to עַדְנָה (`{{H5734}}`) is its root עָדַן (`{{H5727}}`), which means "to be soft, delicate, pleasant, or luxurious." This root is foundational to understanding the underlying meaning of the proper noun.
Crucially, this root also gives rise to עֵדֶן (`{{H5731}}`), famously known as "Eden," as in the Garden of Eden ([[Genesis 2:8]]). The Garden of Eden is depicted as a place of unparalleled delight, pleasure, and abundance, a paradise where God walked with humanity. This connection profoundly links the concept of "pleasure" inherent in עַדְנָה to a divine, original state of blessedness and joy.
Other related concepts, though not direct lexical derivations, include words for "delight" (e.g., חֵפֶץ - `{{H2656}}`), "joy" (e.g., שִׂמְחָה - `{{H8057}}`), and "goodness" (e.g., טוֹב - `{{H2896}}`), as these terms often describe experiences or states of being that align with the notion of "pleasure" or "pleasantness" that עָדַן signifies.
### Theological Significance
While עַדְנָה (`{{H5734}}`) itself is a proper name and does not carry direct theological doctrine, its etymological root in "pleasure" (עָדַן - `{{H5727}}`) and its connection to "Eden" (`{{H5731}}`) imbue it with significant theological resonance.
The concept of "pleasure" in a biblical context is not inherently negative; rather, it is often seen as a gift from God. The Garden of Eden represents God's original intention for humanity: a life of delight, abundance, and intimate fellowship with the Creator. True pleasure, therefore, is ultimately found in God and in living according to His design.
The individuals named Adnah, though serving in military capacities, carry a name that subtly echoes this divine concept of delight. Their service to righteous kings (David and Jehoshaphat) could be seen as contributing to the "pleasantness" or well-being of the kingdom, perhaps even reflecting a divine favor or blessing upon their lives. The choice of such a name by parents might have signified a hope for a life of blessing, prosperity, or even a pleasant disposition for their child. Thus, the name עַדְנָה, while not a theological term itself, points to the broader biblical understanding of pleasure as originating from God and being an integral part of His good creation and benevolent provision.
### Summary
The Hebrew word עַדְנָה (`{{H5734}}`) functions as a proper noun, naming two distinct individuals in the Old Testament: a Manassite commander under David and a chief commander under Jehoshaphat. Etymologically, it derives from the root עָדַן (`{{H5727}}`), meaning "to be soft, delicate, pleasant, or luxurious," thereby carrying the underlying sense of "pleasure" or "delight." This root is famously linked to עֵדֶן (`{{H5731}}`), the Garden of Eden, a place of divine pleasure and perfect communion. While the biblical figures named Adnah are known for their military leadership and loyalty, their name subtly connects to the profound theological concept of God as the source of all true pleasure and delight, and the original state of blessedness He intended for humanity.
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