### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʻAdnâh**, represented by `{{H5734}}`, means **pleasure**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, where it is the name of two distinct Israelite military commanders.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5734}}` identifies two men of high military rank. The first Adnah was a **chief** `{{H8269}}` from the tribe of **Judah** `{{H3063}}`, commanding three hundred thousand **mighty men** `{{H1368}}` of **valour** `{{H2428}}` [[2 Chronicles 17:14]]. The second Adnah was a **captain** `{{H7218}}` from the tribe of **Manasseh** `{{H4519}}` who, along with other leaders, defected and **fell** `{{H5307}}` to David at **Ziklag** `{{H6860}}` [[1 Chronicles 12:20]]. Both accounts place Adnah in a position of significant military leadership.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the roles and character of the men named Adnah:
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (chief, captain): This word describes the rank of the first Adnah, identifying him as a **chief** and head person within the army of Judah [[2 Chronicles 17:14]]. It denotes a position of rule and authority.
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh** (captain, head): This term, meaning head or chief, is used to describe the second Adnah as one of the **captains** of the thousands of Manasseh who joined David [[1 Chronicles 12:20]].
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (mighty man, powerful): This describes the soldiers under the first Adnah's command, characterizing them as powerful warriors [[2 Chronicles 17:14]].
* `{{H2428}}` **chayil** (valour, strength, army): Used alongside **gibbôwr**, this word emphasizes that Adnah's men were a force of great **valour** and strength [[2 Chronicles 17:14]].
### Theological Significance
The accounts of `{{H5734}}` carry theological weight regarding leadership and allegiance within Israel.
* **Military Leadership:** The individuals named Adnah exemplify the organized military structure of Israel, serving as **captains** `{{H8269}}` and **chiefs** `{{H7218}}` over **thousands** `{{H505}}`. This structured command reflects a divinely ordered society prepared for battle.
* **Tribal Identity and Loyalty:** The two men named Adnah are explicitly tied to their tribes, **Judah** `{{H3063}}` and **Manasseh** `{{H4519}}`. The Adnah from Manasseh's decision to join David at Ziklag illustrates a crucial shift of allegiance to God's chosen leader [[1 Chronicles 12:20]].
* **Strength in Service:** Adnah of Judah commanded **mighty men of valour** `{{H1368}}``{{H2428}}`, highlighting the importance of human strength and courage in the service of the kingdom [[2 Chronicles 17:14]]. This strength was marshalled in vast, organized numbers for the nation's defense.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5734}}` is more than just a name meaning "pleasure." In its biblical usage, **ʻAdnâh** is consistently associated with military authority and leadership. The two men who bear this name are presented as powerful commanders from the tribes of Judah and Manasseh, responsible for significant forces and demonstrating the importance of organized strength and loyalty in the history of Israel.
TRV