דֵּעַ (de.a)
de.a
knowledge
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The noun daʿat denotes knowledge or a settled opinion, appearing only five times in the Hebrew Bible with a heavy concentration in the book of Job. It functions as a substantive concept, referring to the state of knowing something or the judgment derived from that awareness.
In its most striking usage, the text applies this term to God’s own understanding. In Job 37:16, for instance, the speaker marvels at how the skies balance by the guidance of Him whose knowledge is perfect. This usage elevates the word beyond simple factual data; it points to a profound, comprehensive grasp of reality that humans lack.
The sources also link daʿat with human opinion or judgment, particularly in legal or deliberative contexts found in Job. Here, it represents a conclusion reached after consideration. Translators typically render it as "knowledge," though the context often demands a sense of "insight" or "opinion" to capture the weight of the decision being made.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word daʿat points to more than simple facts; it describes a settled understanding or judgment that comes from deep experience. In Job, this term often appears when characters are trying to explain their deepest struggles or defend their integrity before God. It suggests that true knowledge is not just about having information, but about how we process reality and form our convictions.
When Elihu speaks of showing his opinion, he uses daʿat to describe a conclusion reached after careful thought. This reminds us that our own insights matter, even when we feel young or inexperienced compared to others. We are invited to bring our honest reflections to God, trusting that He values our sincere attempt to understand His ways.
Ultimately, the word highlights the contrast between human limitation and divine perfection. Job 37:16 marvels at the One who is perfect in knowledge, balancing the skies with wisdom we cannot fully grasp. This offers comfort: while we may not have all the answers, God’s understanding is complete and reliable, holding our lives securely even when things seem unclear.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- knowledge/ my4×
- knowledge<s>1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- דֵּעִ֣/י2×
- דֵּעִֽים\׃1×
- דֵעִ֣/י1×
- דֵ֭עִ/י1×
Key Verses
-
Job 37:16
Do you know the workings of the clouds, the wondrous works of him who is perfect in knowledge?
This verse applies daʿat to God, emphasizing His perfect and comprehensive grasp of creation that surpasses human ability.
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Job 32:6
Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered, “I am young, and you are very old. Therefore I held back, and didn’t dare show you my opinion.
Elihu uses the word to describe holding back his opinion out of respect for the elders' age and experience.
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Job 32:10
Therefore I said, ‘Listen to me; I also will show my opinion.’
Here daʿat represents a personal conviction that Elihu feels compelled to share despite his youth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does daʿat mean in Job?
How is daʿat different from other words for knowledge?
Why does Elihu mention his opinion so much?
Every Occurrence (5 verses across 1 books)
Job 5 verses
Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered, “I am young, and you are very old. Therefore I held back, and didn’t…
Job 32:10Therefore I said, ‘Listen to me; I also will show my opinion.’
Job 32:17I also will answer my part, and I also will show my opinion.
Job 36:3I will get my knowledge from afar, and will ascribe righteousness to my Maker.
Job 37:16Do you know the workings of the clouds, the wondrous works of him who is perfect in knowledge?