Bible Dictionary
Gammadim
Gammadim is a difficult word occurring only in Ezekiel 27:11. It may describe brave or valiant defenders of Tyre, but its exact meaning and identification remain uncertain.
Definition
Gammadim is a difficult and uncertain word occurring only in Ezekiel 27:11. It may describe courageous or valiant men, perhaps defenders of Tyre’s towers, but the identification and exact meaning cannot be established.
Biblical Usage
The word appears in Ezekiel’s description of Tyre and is rendered “valorous men” in some versions or margins.
Historical Background
Various explanations have been proposed, including a class of brave warriors and short-swordsmen. The sources state that the meaning remains doubtful and that a proper name has also been suggested.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
(Ezek. 27:11) brave warriors; R.V. marg., “valorous men;” others interpret this word as meaning “short-swordsmen,” or “daring ones”, the name of a class of men who were defenders of the towers of Tyre.
Smith's Bible Dictionary
This word occurs only in (Ezekiel 27:11) A variety of explanations of the term have been offered.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>gam'-a-dim (gammadhim):</p><p>The word occurs only in Eze 27:11, in the King James Version in form "Gammadims," in the English Revised Version "Gammadim." In the American Standard Revised Version, as also in the English Revised Version, margin, it is rendered "valorous men." Some think a proper name is required, but identification is not possible, and the meaning remains doubtful.</p>