דָּגַל (da.gal)
da.gal
to look; to set a banner
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb dagal carries two distinct meanings that appear in very different contexts: to look or behold, and to set up a banner or standard. In Song of Solomon 5:10, it is used in the Qal stem to describe the act of looking at something conspicuous, capturing a moment of visual attention and admiration.
Outside of poetry, the word shifts to military imagery, describing the raising of a standard or flag for battle. This usage highlights its root connection to visibility and gathering; a banner serves as a focal point for troops. The Niphal form describes being "bannered" or supplied with standards, emphasizing organization and identity under a visible sign.
Though it occurs only three times in Scripture, the word bridges the intimate gaze of love poetry with the structured command of ancient warfare. Translators must carefully distinguish between these senses based on context, as the same root can evoke either personal observation or communal rallying point.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word dagal connects two very different human experiences: the quiet act of looking and the loud call to gather. In Song of Solomon, it describes a gaze fixed on something precious. When the lover says his beloved is "awesome as an army with banners," he uses military imagery to show how striking she is. It is not about war, but about being so beautiful that you stop people in their tracks.
For your faith life, this duality offers a gentle reminder. We are called to look closely at God and at those He has placed near us. Just as soldiers rally around a visible standard, our hearts find their focus when we fix our eyes on what is true and good. The same word that describes admiration in poetry also describes order in battle suggests that attention brings strength.
When you feel scattered or unsure of your direction, remember the banner. It stands high so others can see it clearly. You do not need to shout to be found; you simply need to be visible and steady. Let your life be a clear sign for those looking for hope, just as the morning light breaks through the dark.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- like <the>/ hosts with banners2×
- [is] conspicuous1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- כַּ/נִּדְגָּלֽוֹת\׃\ \ס1×
- כַּ/נִּדְגָּלֽוֹת\׃1×
- דָּג֖וּל1×
Key Verses
-
Song of Solomon 5:10
My beloved is white and ruddy. The best among ten thousand.
This verse introduces the visual admiration that sets the stage for the military metaphors later in the book.
-
Song of Solomon 6:4
You are beautiful, my love, as Tirzah, lovely as Jerusalem, awesome as an army with banners.
Here the word bridges love and strength, comparing beauty to an organized force rather than chaos.
-
Song of Solomon 6:10
Who is she who looks out as the morning, beautiful as the moon, clear as the sun, and awesome as an army with banners?
The repetition of this phrase emphasizes how a clear, visible presence commands respect and attention without effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Hebrew word dagal mean?
Why is dagal used in Song of Solomon?
How is dagal different from other words for looking?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
Song of Solomon 3 verses
My beloved is white and ruddy. The best among ten thousand.
Song of Solomon 6:4You are beautiful, my love, as Tirzah, lovely as Jerusalem, awesome as an army with banners.
Song of Solomon 6:10Who is she who looks out as the morning, beautiful as the moon, clear as the sun, and awesome as an army with banners?