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גִּדְעֹנִי (gid.o.ni)

gid.o.ni

Gideoni

H1441 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 5 verses

N:N-M-P

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
5 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
N:N-M-P

Word Overview

The name Gideoni appears five times in the Hebrew Bible, primarily within the tribal census records of Numbers 1 and 26. It identifies a specific Benjamite leader, the father of Abidan, who represented his clan during the wilderness journey from Egypt. The name itself translates to "my hewer," suggesting a connection to cutting or shaping stone.

While distinct from the famous judge Gideon (Gid'on), the shared root implies a common cultural imagery of strength and craftsmanship. In these sparse biblical mentions, Gideoni serves as a marker of tribal identity and order rather than a character with a narrative arc. His inclusion highlights the structured organization of Israel’s tribes as they prepared to enter the Promised Land.

Translators typically retain the name as Gideoni or Gedeon to preserve its historical specificity. The brevity of his scriptural presence underscores the importance of individual lineage in the biblical record, where even minor figures are remembered by name.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Gideoni means "my hewer," evoking the image of someone who shapes stone with precision and strength. In the biblical record, he is not a central hero with a dramatic story arc, but rather a leader listed in the census of Israel’s tribes. His presence reminds us that God values order and structure as His people journey toward their promises.

Even though his name appears only in lists of names and offerings, it carries weight. Each individual mentioned by name represents a family line preserved by God. This shows that every person has a place in the larger story of faith. You are part of a lineage that stretches back through generations, each one contributing to the whole.

When you read these records, consider how your own life fits into God’s broader plan. Just as Gideoni helped lead his tribe, your faithful steps matter. God sees the details of your journey and remembers those who walk with Him in obedience.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Gideoni5×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • גִּדְעֹנִֽי\׃3×
  • גִּדְעוֹנִֽי\׃\ \ס1×
  • גִּדְעֹנִֽי\׃\ \פ1×

Key Verses

  • Numbers 1:11
    Of Benjamin: Abidan the son of Gideoni.

    This verse introduces Gideoni as the father of Abidan, establishing his role in the tribal census.

  • Numbers 2:22
    “The tribe of Benjamin: the prince of the children of Benjamin shall be Abidan the son of Gideoni.

    Here, Gideoni’s son is designated as the prince of Benjamin, showing the family's leadership status.

  • Numbers 7:60
    On the ninth day Abidan the son of Gideoni, prince of the children of Benjamin,

    Gideoni’s name appears again during the dedication offerings, linking his lineage to worship and provision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Gideoni mean?

The name Gideoni translates to "my hewer," referring to someone who cuts or shapes stone. This imagery suggests strength and craftsmanship, qualities valued in leadership.

Is Gideoni the same person as the judge Gideon?

No, they are different individuals. While they share a similar root meaning, Gideoni appears in tribal lists in Numbers, whereas Gideon is a well-known judge in the book of Judges.

Why is Gideoni mentioned in the Bible?

He is listed as the father of Abidan, a leader of the tribe of Benjamin. His inclusion highlights the importance of tribal lineage and order during Israel’s wilderness journey.

Every Occurrence (5 verses across 1 books)