Topical Encyclopedia Darda is a biblical figure recognized for his wisdom, mentioned in the Old Testament. He is noted in 1 Kings 4:31, which highlights the exceptional wisdom of King Solomon by comparing it to that of other renowned wise men of the time. The Berean Standard Bible states: "For he was wiser than all men—wiser than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, Calcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol. And his fame spread throughout the surrounding nations."Genealogy and Historical Context Darda is identified as one of the sons of Mahol, a figure whose lineage is not extensively detailed in the Scriptures. The mention of Darda alongside Ethan, Heman, and Calcol suggests a familial or scholarly group known for their wisdom. The context of 1 Kings 4 places Darda in the era of King Solomon, a time characterized by a flourishing of wisdom and learning in Israel. This period is marked by Solomon's reign, which is often dated to the 10th century BC. Wisdom Tradition The inclusion of Darda in the list of wise men underscores the rich tradition of wisdom literature in ancient Israel. Wisdom, in the biblical sense, encompasses not only intellectual acumen but also practical skills, moral insight, and a deep understanding of God's creation. The wisdom tradition is a significant aspect of the Old Testament, with books such as Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Job exploring themes of knowledge, understanding, and the fear of the Lord. Cultural and Theological Significance Darda's mention, though brief, contributes to the broader biblical narrative that values wisdom as a divine gift. The comparison to Solomon, whose wisdom was a direct endowment from God (1 Kings 3:12), elevates Darda's status as a paragon of human intellect and insight. This acknowledgment reflects the high esteem in which wisdom was held in ancient Israelite society and its role in governance, justice, and daily life. Legacy and Influence While specific details about Darda's life and works are not provided in the biblical text, his inclusion in the wisdom tradition suggests a legacy that influenced subsequent generations. The wisdom of figures like Darda would have been preserved and transmitted through oral and written traditions, contributing to the cultural and spiritual heritage of Israel. In summary, Darda stands as a testament to the value placed on wisdom in the biblical world. His mention alongside other wise men serves to highlight the extraordinary nature of Solomon's wisdom and the broader tradition of seeking understanding and knowledge in accordance with God's will. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 4:31For he was wiser than all men; than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, and Chalcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol: and his fame was in all nations round about. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 2:6 Library The Hebrew Sages and their Proverbs Solomon's Temple Spiritualized Resources How did God respond when Solomon asked for wisdom? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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