דָּגָן

דָּגָן

properly, increase, i.e. grain

Definition

The Hebrew noun דָּגָן (dâgân) fundamentally means 'grain' or 'cereal,' referring to the cultivated, edible seeds of staple crops like wheat and barley. It originates from a root meaning 'to increase,' reflecting grain's role as the abundant, multiplying produce of the land. In the Bible, it consistently denotes harvested grain, often in the context of agricultural bounty and divine blessing (Deuteronomy 11:14). While sometimes translated broadly as 'corn' (KJV), it specifically excludes produce from fruit trees or vines, representing the core field crops of ancient Israel.

Biblical Usage

דָּגָן appears 40 times, primarily in the Pentateuch (especially Deuteronomy) and the Prophets, within contexts of blessing, law, and provision. It is a key component of God's promised blessings for covenant obedience (Deuteronomy 28:51) and the required offerings for priests and the sanctuary (Numbers 18:12, 27). The word is often paired with 'new wine' and 'fresh oil' (Deuteronomy 7:13) to symbolize the full agricultural yield of the land. Its usage underscores grain as a divinely given staple for sustenance and worship.

Etymology

Derived from the root דָּגָה (dāgâ, H1711), meaning 'to multiply, increase, grow.' This etymological link highlights grain's nature as the proliferating, abundant produce of cultivated fields. The concept shifts from the general act of increasing to the specific, tangible result of that increase—the harvested grain that sustains the community.

Semantic Range

דָּגָן is theologically significant as a tangible sign of God's covenant faithfulness and provision. Its presence signifies blessing and life (Genesis 27:28), while its absence signifies covenant curse and famine. As a primary tithe and offering (Deuteronomy 14:23), it represents the return to God of what He first provided, grounding worship in material gratitude. Understanding דָּגָן enriches reading by connecting spiritual promises to physical sustenance and highlighting the integral link between the land, its produce, and Israel's relationship with Yahweh. In ancient Israel's agrarian society, דָּגָן (wheat, barley) was not just a crop but the foundation of the food supply and economic stability. It represented wealth, security, and survival. The modern concept of 'corn' is misleading; דָּגָן refers to the staple grains ground into flour for bread, the essential 'staff of life.' Its careful harvest, storage, and use were central to daily life and community well-being. חִטָּה (ḥiṭṭâ, H2406) — specifically 'wheat,' a type of דָּגָן. שְׂעֹרָה (śeʿōrâ, H8184) — specifically 'barley,' another type of דָּגָן, often of lesser quality. תְּבוּאָה (tebûʾâ, H8393) — a broader term for 'produce, yield' of the land, which includes דָּגָן but also fruit and other crops.

Word Details