Darda(dara)
“Pearl of knowledge”
Summary
One of four famous wise men whose wisdom was surpassed by Solomon, possibly a descendant of Judah through Zerah.
☩Solomon's Superior Wisdom
Solomon's wisdom exceeded that of all the children of the east, all the wisdom of Egypt, and specifically four named wise men: Ethan the Ezrahite, Heman, Chalcol, and Darda, sons of Mahol. These men evidently enjoyed great reputation for wisdom in Israel, yet Solomon 'was wiser than all men.' The mention of these names suggests they were well-known figures whose wisdom was proverbial.
☩Identity and Family
In 1 Chronicles 2:6, the same four names appear as 'sons of Zerah' of the tribe of Judah, with 'Darda' spelled 'Dara.' The designation 'sons of Mahol' may mean 'sons of the choir' rather than indicating a personal father, suggesting these men were famous musicians—two of whom (Ethan and Heman) are named in the titles of Psalms 88 and 89. Jewish tradition claims they prophesied during the Egyptian bondage.
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Darda," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. II (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Darda," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. II (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).