אֲבִידָן (a.vi.dan)
a.vi.dan
Abidan
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Abidan, meaning "my father is judge," identifies a specific leader from the tribe of Benjamin during the Israelite wilderness journey. He appears five times in the Old Testament, primarily within the book of Numbers, where he is listed as the son of Gideoni and the appointed prince or ruler over his tribal group.
His role was largely administrative and representative. In the census records of Numbers 1:11 and again in chapter 2, Abidan is named as the official who oversaw the registration and organization of the Benjamite community. Later references in Numbers 7:36 and 10:23 place him in the context of tribal offerings and camp arrangements, highlighting his function as a key figure in maintaining order among the twelve tribes.
While Abidan does not speak or perform miracles in the biblical text, his name carries theological weight. By invoking "judge," it reflects a community identity rooted in divine authority and leadership. His repeated mention underscores the importance of structured leadership within the Israelite camp, ensuring that each tribe had a recognized head responsible for its people and their duties before God.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Abidan means "my father is judge," a title that reminds us our ultimate authority comes from God alone. In the wilderness, he served as the leader over the tribe of Benjamin, responsible for organizing his people and presenting their offerings before the Lord. His role was not about personal fame but about faithful stewardship within a larger community.
When we look at Numbers 7:60, we see Abidan bringing his gifts on the ninth day of the dedication. This detail shows that God values the orderly participation of every individual in His worship. It is comforting to know that our lives, when aligned with divine purpose, contribute to the greater good of the community.
Even though Abidan is a minor figure, his story encourages us to take our responsibilities seriously. Whether leading a large group or managing small daily tasks, we can trust that God sees our faithful service. Let this inspire you to find joy in being part of something larger than yourself, knowing that every act of obedience matters to Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Abidan4×
- [was] Abidan1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אֲבִידָ֖ן5×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 1:11
Of Benjamin: Abidan the son of Gideoni.
This verse introduces Abidan as the son of Gideoni, establishing his lineage and official status within the census of Israel.
-
Numbers 2:22
“The tribe of Benjamin: the prince of the children of Benjamin shall be Abidan the son of Gideoni.
Here Abidan is designated as the prince over Benjamin, highlighting his leadership role in the camp's arrangement.
-
Numbers 7:60
On the ninth day Abidan the son of Gideoni, prince of the children of Benjamin,
This occurrence marks the specific day Abidan presented his tribal offering, showing the structured nature of Israelite worship.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Every Occurrence (5 verses across 1 books)
Numbers 5 verses
Of Benjamin: Abidan the son of Gideoni.
Numbers 2:22“The tribe of Benjamin: the prince of the children of Benjamin shall be Abidan the son of Gideoni.
Numbers 7:60On the ninth day Abidan the son of Gideoni, prince of the children of Benjamin,
Numbers 7:65and for the sacrifice of peace offerings, two head of cattle, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year…
Numbers 10:24Abidan the son of Gideoni was over the army of the tribe of the children of Benjamin.