עַדְנָה (ad.nah)
ad.nah
Adnah
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 Adnah appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, identifying two different military leaders from the era of the Divided Monarchy. In 1 Chronicles 12:20, he is a Manassite chief who deserted King Saul to join David at Ziklag, bringing with him significant support. This same name reappears in 2 Chronicles 17:14, where it identifies a captain overseeing a massive force of over 300,000 men under King Jehoshaphat.
Etymologically, the name derives from a root meaning "pleasure" or "delight." While this semantic link is noted in lexical sources, the biblical text itself focuses entirely on his role as a commander rather than any personal characteristic. The repetition of the name across two distinct historical contexts suggests it was a known designation within Judah’s military hierarchy during that period.
These brief mentions highlight the complex political landscape of the time, where tribal loyalties shifted and strong leadership was crucial for survival. Adnah’s presence in both narratives underscores the importance of capable officers in maintaining the stability of the kingdom, serving as a historical footnote rather than a theological focal point.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Adnah appears in Scripture as a reminder that God uses ordinary people for significant purposes. In 2 Chronicles 17:14, Adnah is listed as a captain overseeing three hundred thousand mighty men of valor under King Jehoshaphat. This brief mention highlights the importance of faithful leadership and organization within the community of believers.
While we may not hold official titles or command large groups, this passage encourages us to serve diligently in our own spheres of influence. Whether leading a team, managing a household, or serving in a local church, doing so with excellence honors God. The stability of any community relies on the commitment of its leaders to act with integrity and strength.
May we find encouragement in these historical figures who stood firm in their duties. Let us trust that God sees our faithful service, even when it goes unnoticed by the world around us.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Adnah1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עַדְנָ֣ה1×
Key Verses
-
II Chronicles 17:14
This was the numbering of them according to their fathers’ houses: From Judah, the captains of thousands: Adnah the captain, and with him three hundred thousand mighty men of valor;
This verse identifies Adnah as a captain of thousands, highlighting his role in organizing a massive military force under King Jehoshaphat.