כִּידֹן (ki.don)
ki.don
Chidon
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Kidon appears in only one verse, 1 Chronicles 13:9, where it identifies a man who died when he touched the Ark of the Covenant. The text notes that this individual is also known as Nacon in the parallel account of 2 Samuel 6:6. This dual naming highlights a textual variation found in the Hebrew manuscripts, where different traditions preserve slightly different forms for the same person involved in this pivotal moment.
Etymologically, the word Kidon means "javelin" or "spear." While the name itself is rare, its meaning evokes a sharp, pointed image. The sources suggest that the name may have been chosen to reflect the manner of his death or perhaps the site where it occurred, linking a personal identity to a specific object or location associated with violence and judgment.
This single occurrence carries significant theological weight. It marks the immediate consequence of unauthorized contact with the holy presence of God. The narrative uses this event to underscore the seriousness of approaching divine holiness without proper reverence, serving as a stark reminder of the boundaries between the sacred and the common in Israel’s worship life.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Kidon appears in only one verse of Scripture, marking a moment of sudden tragedy when an ox stumbled and a man named Uzzah reached out to steady the Ark of the Covenant. This single occurrence serves as a sobering reminder of God's absolute holiness and the seriousness with which He views His presence. It is not merely a historical footnote but a profound lesson on reverence, showing that approaching the divine requires careful obedience to His established ways.
While the name itself means "javelin," evoking a sharp and pointed image, its true significance lies in the narrative context rather than etymology. This event underscores the boundary between the sacred and the common, inviting us to reflect on our own approach to worship. It calls for a heart that honors God's commands with deep respect, recognizing that His holiness is both beautiful and awe-inspiring.
Ultimately, this passage points to our need for a mediator who bridges the gap between human frailty and divine perfection. Through Christ, we are invited into God's presence not with fear of judgment, but with confidence in grace. This hope anchors our faith, reminding us that while God is holy, He is also merciful to those who seek Him with sincere hearts.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Kidon1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- כִּידֹ֑ן1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 13:9
When they came to Chidon’s threshing floor, Uzza put out his hand to hold the ark, for the oxen stumbled.
This verse identifies Kidon as the location where Uzzah touched the Ark, highlighting the specific moment of divine judgment that underscores the seriousness of approaching God's holiness.