עֲדִינוֹ (a.di.no)
a.di.no
`wielded`
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 word ʿăḏînô appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, at 2 Samuel 23:8. In this context, it functions as a proper name identifying one of King David’s elite warriors, known as "The Adino." The text introduces him with the phrase "the Adino," linking his identity directly to his reputation for martial prowess.
Etymologically, the name derives from the root ʿ-d-n, which carries connotations of delicacy or ornamentation. While some lexical sources suggest an adjective form meaning "voluptuous" or "delicate," the name itself is generally interpreted as "his ornament" or "his delight." This creates a striking contrast between the gentle etymology and the violent reality of his role as a champion who wielded his spear against eight hundred enemies in a single encounter.
Translators often render the introductory phrase as "the leader" or simply use the name, but the underlying Hebrew emphasizes possession. The word serves as a unique marker in the list of David’s mighty men, preserving the memory of a specific individual whose strength was seen as a prized asset to the kingdom. Its solitary occurrence highlights how personal identity and military achievement were intertwined in the historical records of the United Monarchy.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Adino carries a quiet beauty that contrasts sharply with his deeds. Derived from a root meaning delicacy or ornament, it suggests something precious and cherished. In 2 Samuel 23:8, this warrior is introduced not just as a fighter, but as "Adino the Eznite," a title that marks him as a valued part of David’s inner circle. His strength was seen as a gift to the kingdom, a prized asset used in defense of his people.
When we read about such figures, it reminds us that God uses diverse gifts for His purposes. What might seem like a simple name actually points to a life dedicated to service and protection. We can find comfort in knowing that our own unique qualities, however they appear, are held with care. Just as Adino’s strength was recognized and recorded, your distinct contributions matter in the broader story of faith.
This single mention preserves his memory for generations who came after. It shows that even those who served in difficult roles left an imprint on history. We can trust that God sees and values every act of loyalty and courage. May we approach our own tasks with the same sense of purpose, knowing that our efforts are never unnoticed.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Adino1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עֲדִינ֣וֹ1×
Key Verses
-
II Samuel 23:8
These are the names of the mighty men whom David had: Josheb Basshebeth a Tahchemonite, chief of the captains; he was called Adino the Eznite, who killed eight hundred at one time.
This verse introduces Adino as a specific leader among David's mighty men, linking his name directly to his feat of killing eight hundred enemies at one time.