Bedei'ah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the post-exilic community. The name Bedei'ah appears in the context of the return from the Babylonian exile, a significant period in Israel's history when the Jewish people were allowed to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the Temple under the decree of Cyrus the Great.

Biblical Reference:
Bedei'ah is mentioned in the book of Ezra, which details the return of the exiles and the restoration of the Temple. In Ezra 10:35, Bedei'ah is listed among the sons of Bani who had taken foreign wives. The verse in the Berean Standard Bible reads: "And among the descendants of Bani: Maadai, Amram, Uel, Benaiah, Bedei'ah, Cheluhu, Vaniah, Meremoth, Eliashib, Mattaniah, Mattenai, Jaasu."

Historical and Theological Context:
The mention of Bedei'ah occurs during a time of religious reform led by Ezra, a scribe and priest who was instrumental in re-establishing the Law of Moses among the returned exiles. The issue of intermarriage with foreign women was a significant concern for Ezra, as it was seen as a threat to the religious and cultural identity of the Jewish people. The marriages to foreign women were believed to lead to idolatry and a departure from the covenantal relationship with Yahweh.

Ezra's reforms included a call for the Israelites to separate themselves from these foreign influences, which involved the difficult decision for many to send away their foreign wives and children. This action was seen as necessary to preserve the purity of the community and to ensure faithfulness to God's commandments.

Name Meaning and Significance:
The name Bedei'ah is of Hebrew origin, and while its exact meaning is not definitively known, it is often interpreted as "servant of Yah" or "Yahweh has distinguished." Names in the biblical context often carry significant meaning, reflecting the character or destiny of the individual or the circumstances surrounding their life.

Role in the Community:
Bedei'ah, as one of the sons of Bani, represents the broader community of Israelites who were faced with the challenge of aligning their lives with the covenantal laws upon their return to the land. The inclusion of his name in the genealogical record underscores the importance of individual and communal responsibility in maintaining the distinctiveness of the people of God.

The account of Bedei'ah and others in Ezra 10 serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to live in accordance with divine commandments, especially in the face of cultural and societal pressures. It highlights the theme of repentance and the need for continual reform and renewal in the life of the covenant community.Bedei'ah (1 Occurrence)

Ezra 10:35
Benaiah, Bedeiah, Cheluhu;
(See RSV)

Bedei'ah (1 Occurrence)
Bedei'ah. Bedeiah, Bedei'ah. Bediah . Multi-Version Concordance Bedei'ah
(1 Occurrence). Ezra 10:35 Benaiah, Bedeiah, Cheluhu; (See RSV). ...
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Bedeiah (1 Occurrence)

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Bediah (1 Occurrence)

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