GospelMount
Search Topics Scripture Prayer Resources Ebooks About Support the mission Saved articles

דְּעוּאֵל (de.u.el)

de.u.el

Deuel

H1845 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 4 verses

N:N-M-P

Quick Reference

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

Word Overview

The name Deuel appears in the Old Testament as a personal name for a specific individual during the Israelite wilderness journey. Listed in Numbers 1:14 and 2:14, he is identified as the father of Eliasaph, who served as the captain or leader of the tribe of Gad. The text notes that this same figure is also referred to by the variant name Reuel.

Linguistically, the name Deuel carries the meaning "they know God." This etymology aligns with other Hebrew names of the period that affirm divine knowledge or relationship. Although the name occurs only four times in Scripture, its presence in the tribal census records highlights the structured organization of the tribes as they prepared to move from Sinai.

Translators and scholars recognize Deuel and Reuel as referring to the same person, illustrating how names could vary slightly in biblical manuscripts or traditions. This variation does not change his role as a patriarchal figure within the tribe of Gad, anchoring his identity firmly in the historical narrative of Israel's early formation.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Deuel, meaning "they know God," appears in the census records of Numbers as the father of Eliasaph, leader of the tribe of Gad. Though he is a minor figure in the biblical narrative, his inclusion reminds us that every individual has a place in God's larger story. The structured organization of the tribes was not just administrative; it reflected a community built on knowing and serving their Creator.

When we read about Eliasaph leading his people, we see how ordinary families were used for extraordinary purposes. Deuel’s legacy lives on through his son’s faithful service during the wilderness journey. This connection between generations encourages us to consider how our own lives might impact those who follow. In knowing God, we become part of a lineage that trusts Him day by day.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Deuel4×

Forms in the text

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

  • דְּעוּאֵֽל\׃3×
  • דְּעוּאֵֽל\׃\ \פ1×

Key Verses

  • Numbers 1:14
    Of Gad: Eliasaph the son of Deuel.

    This verse introduces Deuel as the father of Eliasaph, establishing his role in the tribal census and highlighting the structured organization of Israel's tribes.

  • Numbers 7:42
    On the sixth day, Eliasaph the son of Deuel, prince of the children of Gad,

    Here, Eliasaph is identified as the prince of Gad during the dedication offerings, showing how Deuel’s family contributed to communal worship.

  • Numbers 10:20
    Eliasaph the son of Deuel was over the army of the tribe of the children of Gad.

    This passage confirms Eliasaph’s leadership over Gad’s army, reflecting the enduring legacy of Deuel’s lineage in Israel’s journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Deuel mean?

The name Deuel means "they know God." It reflects a common theme in Hebrew names that emphasize a relationship with or knowledge of God. This etymology aligns with other biblical names that affirm divine connection.

Who is Deuel in the Bible?

Deuel is mentioned as the father of Eliasaph, who led the tribe of Gad during Israel’s wilderness journey. He appears in Numbers 1:14 and other passages, highlighting his family’s role in the structured organization of Israel’s tribes.

Why is Deuel also called Reuel?

Scholars note that Deuel and Reuel refer to the same person, illustrating how names could vary slightly in biblical manuscripts or traditions. This variation does not change his identity as a patriarchal figure within Gad’s lineage.

What is the significance of Deuel’s name?

Deuel’s name, meaning "they know God," underscores the importance of divine knowledge in biblical culture. It connects his family to a broader tradition of affirming God’s presence and guidance in daily life.

Every Occurrence (4 verses across 1 books)

Numbers 4 verses
Numbers 1:14

Of Gad: Eliasaph the son of Deuel.

Numbers 7:42

On the sixth day, Eliasaph the son of Deuel, prince of the children of Gad,

Numbers 7:47

and for the sacrifice of peace offerings, two head of cattle, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year…

Numbers 10:20

Eliasaph the son of Deuel was over the army of the tribe of the children of Gad.