דִּמְנָה (dim.nah)
dim.nah
Dimnah
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The name Dimnah identifies a specific Levitical city assigned to the tribe of Zebulun in the book of Joshua. Its meaning, "dunghill" or "place of dung," is strikingly humble for a settlement designated as a sanctuary for God’s ministers. This unglamorous etymology contrasts sharply with the sacred purpose of the town, which was to serve as a home and center for religious instruction rather than agricultural production.
Significantly, this location is also known by the name Rimmon, meaning "pomegranate." The coexistence of these two names—one suggesting lowly waste, the other fruitfulness—offers a unique glimpse into how ancient communities viewed their own identity. It highlights a recurring biblical theme where places of spiritual significance are often rooted in ordinary, or even base, earthly realities.
With only one occurrence in the canonical text, Dimnah serves as a brief but concrete marker in the distribution of land among Israel’s tribes. Its inclusion underscores the practical organization of the Levites’ inheritance, ensuring they had established communities within the tribal territories while maintaining their distinct role in worship and teaching.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Dimnah carries a meaning that might seem unexpected for a city set apart for God’s ministers. Translating to "dunghill" or a place of waste, it stands in stark contrast to the sacred role its inhabitants played. Yet this humble origin points to a profound truth: God often chooses what the world considers lowly to accomplish His purposes. The Levites did not need grandeur to serve; they needed faithfulness in the place they were given.
It is comforting to know that spiritual significance is not tied to prestige or beauty. In Joshua 21:35, we see Dimnah listed alongside other cities as part of a careful, loving provision for those who taught the law. This reminds us that our value in God’s kingdom does not depend on how impressive our circumstances appear. Even in ordinary or difficult settings, we can be centers of instruction and worship.
When you feel overlooked or undervalued, remember Dimnah. Your current situation may not look like a pomegranate tree full of fruit, but it can still be holy ground. God uses the humble places to build His community. Rest in the knowledge that He sees your faithfulness where others might see only dust.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Dimnah1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- דִּמְנָה֙1×
Key Verses
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Joshua 21:35
Dimnah with its pasture lands, and Nahalal with its pasture lands: four cities.
This verse lists Dimnah as one of four cities given to the Levites, highlighting its specific role in the practical distribution of land for religious service.