Original Word: הִדַּי
Part of Speech: Proper Name Masculine
Transliteration: Hidday
Pronunciation: hid-dah'ee
Phonetic Spelling: (hid-dah'ee)
KJV: Hiddai
NASB: Hiddai
Word Origin: [of uncertain derivation]

1. Hiddai, an Israelite

Hiddai

Of uncertain derivation; Hiddai, an Israelite -- Hiddai.

Word Origin
of uncertain derivation
Definition
one of David's heroes
NASB Translation
Hiddai (1).

הִדַּי proper name, masculine one of David's heroes 2 Samuel 23:30 = חוּרַי 1 Chronicles 11:32.

Biblical Occurrence

“Hiddai from the wadis of Gaash” is listed among “the thirty” in David’s elite corps of warriors (2 Samuel 23:30). A parallel catalogue calls him “Hurai” (1 Chronicles 11:32), reflecting a common variation in ancient Hebrew spelling rather than a different individual. In both passages he stands shoulder to shoulder with men whose exploits secured David’s throne and, by extension, advanced the unfolding messianic promise entrusted to the house of David.

Geographical Setting: The Wadis of Gaash

Gaash is a ridge in the central hill country of Ephraim, noted earlier as the landmark near Joshua’s tomb (Joshua 24:30; Judges 2:9). The term “wadis” (naḥalê) evokes steep ravines cut by seasonal torrents—terrain demanding agility and courage. That Hiddai hailed from this rugged landscape suggests a warrior seasoned in ambush and mountain skirmish, skills invaluable to David during his wilderness years and later campaigns.

Role among David’s Mighty Men

2 Samuel 23 first celebrates “the Three,” then expands to “the Thirty,” a title that grew to encompass more than thirty names as deaths and additions occurred over the years. Hiddai is embedded in this roster between Benaiah the Pirathonite and Abialbon the Arbathite, both Ephraimite or Benjaminite figures, implying a concentration of northern tribesmen in David’s service. Their inclusion underscores the unifying power of David’s kingdom: loyalty transcended tribal boundaries when God’s anointed led in righteousness.

Historical Significance

1. Military Consolidation: The presence of warriors from Ephraim (Hiddai), Benjamin (Ittai son of Ribai), and Judah reflects the growing national cohesion that replaced the fragmented rule of the Judges era.
2. Covenant Continuity: By securing David’s reign, Hiddai and his comrades preserved the dynasty through which the promised “son of David” would come (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Luke 1:32-33).
3. Textual Witness: The dual forms “Hiddai/Hurai” illustrate how ancient scribes preserved variant readings without obscuring identity and meaning, reinforcing confidence in the integrity of the received text.

Theological and Ministry Lessons

Loyalty to God’s Anointed

“Whoever honors Me I will honor” (1 Samuel 2:30). Hiddai’s unsung fidelity shows that unknown places and hidden valleys are still arenas for kingdom impact. Every believer, regardless of public profile, can uphold the cause of the true Son of David (Hebrews 13:20-21).

Unity in Diversity

Tribal distinctions did not hinder service; they enriched it. Today the body of Christ thrives when cultural and denominational streams converge under one Head (Ephesians 4:3-6).

Preparedness in Obscurity

Gaash’s harsh terrain formed Hiddai before his name ever reached a royal roll. Similarly, private disciplines and trials equip disciples for future assignments (James 1:2-4).

Key Scripture

“Benaiah the Pirathonite, Hiddai from the wadis of Gaash” (2 Samuel 23:30).

Summary

Though mentioned only once, Hiddai exemplifies steadfast devotion, regional inclusion, and the quiet heroism that advances God’s redemptive plan. His life encourages believers to cultivate faithfulness where God has placed them, confident that every act of service—however hidden—finds its place in the larger narrative of the kingdom.

הִדַּ֖י הדי hid·day hidDai hiddayInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts