Dan

The name Dan originates from the Hebrew word דָּן (Dān), meaning 'judge' or 'he judged.' Its etymology is tied to the biblical narrative in Genesis 30:6, where Rachel, Jacob's wife, declares, 'God has judged me, and has also heard my voice and given me a son.' This statement reflects both the linguistic and theological roots of the name, emphasizing divine justice and providence. The name's simplicity and profound meaning have made it a significant and enduring choice throughout history.

The name Dan holds a prominent place in biblical history and spiritual significance. As the fifth son of Jacob and the firstborn of Bilhah, Rachel's handmaid, Dan is a foundational figure in the lineage of the Israelite tribes. Jacob's prophetic blessing of Dan in Genesis 49:16-17 describes him as a judge of his people and metaphorically as a serpent, symbolizing both his role in leadership and the complexities of his tribe's future. This duality reflects the tribe's later historical and spiritual challenges, as seen in their association with idolatry during the divided monarchy (1 Kings 12:28–30).

Dan appears in 49 biblical verses, emphasizing his importance in the scriptural narrative. As a patriarch, his story begins in Genesis 30:6, where Rachel names him to reflect God's judgment and blessing. His tribe becomes the second-largest in the wilderness census, boasting 62,700 members (Numbers 1:39), and occupies a significant territory in Israel, bordered by Ephraim and Judah (Joshua 19:40–43). The city of Dan, named after the tribe, serves as a geographic marker in the phrase 'from Dan to Beersheba,' representing the northernmost point of Israel's territory (Judges 20:1).