Darah
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Etymology and Meaning:
The name "Darah" is of Hebrew origin, and it is believed to mean "house of the shepherd" or "generation." The etymology of the name suggests a connection to pastoral life, which is a recurring theme in biblical narratives.

Biblical Reference:
Darah is mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Judah. The sole reference to Darah in the Bible is found in 1 Chronicles 2:6: "The sons of Zerah: Zimri, Ethan, Heman, Calcol, and Dara—five in all." In some translations, "Dara" is rendered as "Darah," though the Berean Standard Bible uses "Dara."

Genealogical Context:
Darah is listed as one of the sons of Zerah, who was a son of Judah and Tamar. This places Darah within the lineage of the tribe of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe of Judah holds significant importance in biblical history, as it is the tribe from which King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ descended.

Cultural and Historical Significance:
The mention of Darah, along with his brothers, in the genealogical records highlights the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative. The tribe of Judah, to which Darah belongs, is often associated with leadership and kingship. This is evident in the blessings given by Jacob to his sons, where Judah is described as a lion's whelp, symbolizing strength and leadership (Genesis 49:9).

Theological Implications:
While Darah himself is not a prominent figure in biblical accounts, his inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the meticulous nature of biblical genealogies and their role in establishing the fulfillment of God's promises through specific lineages. The tribe of Judah's prominence in biblical prophecy and its connection to the Messiah is a central theme in Christian theology.

Related Figures:
· Zerah: Darah's father, one of the twin sons of Judah and Tamar. Zerah's lineage is noted for its wisdom and musical talent, as seen in the mention of Ethan and Heman, who are associated with wisdom and the Psalms.
· Judah: The patriarch of the tribe, whose descendants include notable biblical figures such as King David and Jesus Christ.

Interpretative Challenges:
The variation in the name "Darah" as "Dara" in different translations presents a minor challenge in biblical interpretation. However, such variations are common in ancient texts and do not significantly alter the understanding of the genealogical records.

Conclusion:
Darah's mention in the Bible, though brief, contributes to the rich tapestry of Judah's lineage. His inclusion in the genealogical records serves as a reminder of the importance of heritage and the fulfillment of divine promises through specific family lines in biblical history.
Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary
Darah

generation; house of the shepherd or of the companion

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Dara
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