Who Was the Danite?

The term Danite refers to a member of the tribe of Dan, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Dan, the fifth son of Jacob and the first son born to Bilhah, Rachel‘s maidservant (Genesis 30:5-6). The Hebrew form of Danite is דָּנִי (Dani), derived from the name Dan (דָּן) which means “he judged” or “God has judged.” This tribe inherited territory in the Promised Land and played significant roles in Israel’s early history, including in warfare, religious controversy, and national identity.

In Leviticus 24:10–16, the reference to a Danite emerges in a troubling episode involving blasphemy. The individual in question is not named, but is identified by tribal lineage: “The son of an Israelite mother and an Egyptian father went out among the Israelites, and a fight broke out in the camp between him and an Israelite. The son of the Israelite woman blasphemed the Name with a curse…” (Leviticus 24:10-11, NIV). His mother is specified as Shelomith, of the tribe of Dan.

This account is unique in its emphasis on tribal and ethnic lineage, legal precedent, and the sanctity of God‘s name. It also stands as the first recorded instance of capital punishment by stoning for blasphemy, following the instruction of the Lord through Moses.

Biblical Context and References

• Primary passage: Leviticus 24:10-23

• Genealogical reference: Genesis 30:5-6 (birth of Dan)

• Territorial reference: Joshua 19:40-48

• Tribal role and history: Judges 18 (migration and idolatry), Numbers 1:12; 2:25; 10:25

• Other cross-references: Exodus 31:6 (Oholiab, a Danite craftsman), 1 Kings 12:29-30 (golden calf at Dan)

The Story in Leviticus 24

The Offense

In Leviticus 24:10-11, a fight breaks out in the Israelite camp between two men—one a full Israelite, the other the son of an Israelite woman (Shelomith of the tribe of Dan) and an Egyptian father. During the altercation, the Danite blasphemes “the Name”—a reverent shorthand for Yahweh (יְהוָה)—with a curse. He is seized and placed in custody until God commands Moses regarding his punishment.

The Judgment

God declares that the man must be taken outside the camp and stoned by the community (v. 14). This sets a precedent: “Anyone who blasphemes the name of the Lord is to be put to death” (v. 16). The law is expanded to include both native-born Israelites and foreigners living among them. The principle is clear—God’s name is holy, and those who dishonor it face grave consequences.

Meaning for Today’s Christians

Though the immediate context is under the Mosaic Law, the event underscores the seriousness of God’s holiness, the authority of His name, and the need for reverence. While New Testament believers are not under the civil penalties of ancient Israel, the moral principle remains: God’s name must not be treated lightly.

Christians today often encounter casual or profane use of God‘s name in speech and culture. This passage challenges believers to uphold God‘s name with awe and honor (Matthew 6:9: “Hallowed be your name”). It also serves as a sober reminder that sin—including sins of speech—is not trivial to a holy God.

Gospel Connection: The Judgment Fell on Christ

This unnamed Danite bore the full weight of the Law for his blasphemy. In contrast, the gospel tells us that Jesus bore the judgment we deserve. On the cross, Jesus was treated as one who had blasphemed (see Matthew 26:65-66), though He was sinless. He was “numbered with the transgressors” (Isaiah 53:12), bearing not only the guilt of those who cursed God, but of all who have broken His law.

The Danite’s fate reminds us of the necessity of a perfect substitute—one who could satisfy the demands of God’s justice while offering forgiveness to sinners. That substitute is Christ.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. The Holiness of God’s Name

Throughout Scripture, God‘s name is identified with His character, reputation, and presence. The third commandment—“You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God” (Exodus 20:7)—is echoed in this narrative. Reverence for God‘s name remains a core theme from Genesis to Revelation.

2. Justice Without Partiality

God’s judgment in Leviticus 24 applies to both native-born Israelites and foreigners. This emphasizes God‘s impartial justice (see Deuteronomy 10:17-18; Romans 2:11). The Danite’s mixed heritage did not shield him from accountability nor single him out unfairly; the issue was the sin, not the background.

3. Covenantal Boundaries and Identity

The story raises questions about national and covenantal identity. The son of an Israelite mother and Egyptian father lived among the covenant people but seemed to straddle two identities. This foreshadows New Testament themes of inclusion in Christ—that true belonging comes not by bloodline but by faith (Galatians 3:28-29).

4. Typology and Fulfillment

This account highlights the failure of the Law to save, but rather its role in revealing sin (Romans 3:20). The Law justly condemns, but it cannot redeem. In contrast, Christ fulfills the Law (Matthew 5:17) and extends mercy through grace.

Reflection Questions

1. How do I treat the name of God in my speech, worship, and daily life?

2. What does this passage teach me about the seriousness of sin before a holy God?

3. How does this story increase my appreciation for the work of Christ on the cross?

4. In what ways am I tempted to think lightly of God‘s commands, especially regarding my words?

5. How can I grow in reverence and gratitude for God‘s justice and mercy?

This account of the Danite in Leviticus 24 reminds us of God‘s holiness, the weight of sin, and the beauty of redemption. While the story ends with judgment, it ultimately points forward to Jesus—who bore the curse so we might receive grace.