the same as עֵדֶר; Eder, the name of an Israelite and of two places in Palestine; Edar, Eder.
Transliteration:ʻÊder
Pronunciation:ay'-der
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H5740}}` ('Êder) functions primarily as a proper noun, designating a person and two geographical locations within ancient Israel. Its core meaning is derived directly from its linguistic root, `{{H5739}}` (עֵדֶר), which signifies "flock" or "herd." Thus, while `{{H5740}}` itself is a name, it carries the inherent semantic resonance of its parent word, evoking imagery associated with pastoral life, such as gathering, protection, and communal existence under a shepherd's care. The name 'Êder, therefore, subtly points to the concept of a "flock" in its various biblical manifestations, whether referring to a tribal lineage, a settled community, or a symbolic gathering of people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H5740}}` appears in the Hebrew Bible in three distinct contexts:
1. **A Levite:** 'Êder is identified as a Merarite Levite, a son of Mushi, mentioned in the genealogies of the Levitical families. He is listed among those responsible for the service of the house of the Lord during the time of David.
* [[1 Chronicles 23:23]]: "The sons of Mushi: Mahli, Eder, and Jeremoth, three."
* [[1 Chronicles 24:30]]: "The sons of Mushi: Mahli, Eder, and Jerimoth. These were the sons of the Levites according to their fathers' houses."
In this context, 'Êder represents an individual within the priestly lineage, part of the "flock" of Israel dedicated to divine service.
2. **A City in Southern Judah:** 'Êder is listed as one of the cities in the southernmost part of the tribe of Judah, located in the Negeb.
* [[Joshua 15:21]]: "And the cities of the tribe of the children of Judah in the extreme south, toward the border of Edom, were Kabzeel, Eder, Jagur,"
This geographical reference places 'Êder within the land promised to Israel, signifying a settled community, a "flock" residing within its allotted territory.
3. **Migdal Eder (Tower of the Flock):** This is arguably the most significant occurrence, though 'Êder here is part of a compound name. After the death of Rachel, Jacob "journeyed on and pitched his tent beyond the tower of Eder."
* [[Genesis 35:21]]: "And Israel journeyed on and pitched his tent beyond the tower of Eder."
This location, often identified near Bethlehem, is not merely a geographical marker but carries profound symbolic weight. It is the "Tower of the Flock," a place where shepherds would watch over their sheep, providing a vantage point and protection. Its mention immediately after Rachel's death and Benjamin's birth, and before Jacob's return to Isaac, situates it at a pivotal moment in the patriarchal narrative, hinting at future developments concerning the "flock" of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is `{{H5739}}` (עֵדֶר), "flock" or "herd," from which `{{H5740}}` is directly derived. This connection opens up a rich semantic field:
* **Shepherding:** The concept of a shepherd (e.g., `{{H7462}}`, *ro'eh*) caring for a flock (`{{H5739}}`) is central to biblical imagery, representing divine protection, guidance, and provision.
* **Israel as God's Flock:** Throughout the Old Testament, Israel is frequently depicted as God's flock (e.g., [[Psalm 77:20]], [[Psalm 100:3]], [[Ezekiel 34:1-31]]), with Yahweh as their Shepherd. This metaphor emphasizes God's covenantal relationship, His intimate care, and His ultimate sovereignty over His people.
* **Gathering:** The idea of gathering a scattered flock is a recurring theme, particularly in prophetic literature, symbolizing restoration and reunification (e.g., [[Jeremiah 23:3]], [[Ezekiel 34:12]]).
* **Messianic Shepherd:** The ultimate fulfillment of the shepherd motif is found in the figure of the Messiah, who is depicted as the good shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep (e.g., [[John 10:11]], [[Hebrews 13:20]], [[1 Peter 2:25]]).
The specific reference to "Migdal Eder" (Tower of the Flock) in [[Genesis 35:21]] is particularly significant as it directly links to the prophetic utterance in [[Micah 4:8]]: "And you, O tower of the flock, stronghold of the daughter of Zion, to you shall come the former dominion, the kingdom of the daughter of Jerusalem." This verse explicitly connects the "Tower of the Flock" with the restoration of the Davidic kingdom and the advent of the Messiah.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5740}}`, particularly through "Migdal Eder," is profound and multi-layered.
Firstly, the very name 'Êder, rooted in "flock," consistently reminds the reader of God's relationship with His people as a shepherd to his sheep. Whether a Levite serving in the temple, a city in the promised land, or a strategic watchtower, each instance subtly reinforces the divine oversight and care for the "flock" of Israel.
Secondly, and most compellingly, "Migdal Eder" in [[Genesis 35:21]] serves as a prophetic signpost. Its proximity to Bethlehem, the birthplace of King David and later of Jesus, the Messiah, has led many scholars to see a direct connection to [[Micah 4:8]]. Micah's prophecy speaks of the "tower of the flock" as the place from which the "former dominion" will return to the "daughter of Zion." This is widely interpreted as a messianic prophecy, pointing to the humble birthplace of the true Shepherd-King, Jesus Christ, who would gather and rule God's scattered flock. The Tower of the Flock, a place of vigilance and protection for literal sheep, thus becomes a symbol of the spiritual vigilance and ultimate protection offered by the Messiah. It signifies the place where the King, the ultimate Shepherd, would emerge to restore the kingdom and gather His people.
The name 'Êder, therefore, is not merely a geographical or personal identifier but a theological marker, pointing to God's enduring covenant with His people, His faithful shepherding, and the ultimate advent of the Messiah to reclaim and reign over His flock.
### Summary
`{{H5740}}` ('Êder) is a Hebrew proper noun derived from `{{H5739}}`, meaning "flock" or "herd." It designates a Merarite Levite, a city in southern Judah, and most notably, it forms part of "Migdal Eder" (Tower of the Flock) in [[Genesis 35:21]]. While its occurrences as a personal and place name subtly evoke the imagery of God's people as a "flock," its significance culminates in the prophetic implications of Migdal Eder. This "Tower of the Flock," situated near Bethlehem, is understood by many as a direct reference in [[Micah 4:8]] to the place from which the Messiah, the true Shepherd-King, would emerge to restore the dominion of the "daughter of Zion." Thus, 'Êder, particularly in its association with the "Tower of the Flock," serves as a powerful biblical symbol of divine shepherding, the gathering of God's people, and the advent of the Messiah who would lead His flock.
TRV