Bediah
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Bediah is a name found within the genealogical records of the Bible, specifically in the context of the post-exilic community of Israel. The name Bediah is of Hebrew origin, and it is often understood to mean "servant of Yahweh" or "in the hand of Yahweh," reflecting a common practice in Hebrew culture of embedding the name of God within personal names to signify devotion or divine purpose.

Biblical References:

Bediah is mentioned in the genealogical lists of the Book of Chronicles, which serve to document the lineage and heritage of the tribes of Israel, particularly after the Babylonian exile. These records were crucial for the restoration of the community's identity and religious practices.

1. 1 Chronicles 4:18 · While Bediah is not directly mentioned in this verse, the genealogies in 1 Chronicles 4 provide context for understanding the family lines and tribal affiliations that Bediah would be a part of. The Chronicler's emphasis on lineage underscores the importance of heritage and continuity in the post-exilic period.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The genealogies in which Bediah is mentioned are part of a broader effort by the Chronicler to affirm the identity and continuity of the Israelite people following their return from Babylonian captivity. This period was marked by a renewed focus on covenant faithfulness, temple worship, and adherence to the Law of Moses. Names like Bediah, which incorporate the divine name, reflect the community's desire to align themselves with God's purposes and to seek His favor in the rebuilding of their society.

Theological Significance:

The inclusion of names such as Bediah in the biblical genealogies highlights the personal and communal relationship between the Israelites and Yahweh. It serves as a reminder of the covenantal promises and the role of individuals within the larger narrative of God's redemptive plan. The name itself, meaning "servant of Yahweh," emphasizes the call to servanthood and faithfulness that is central to the biblical message.

Related Themes:

· Covenant and Identity: The genealogies underscore the importance of covenant identity, reminding the Israelites of their unique relationship with God and their responsibilities as His chosen people.
· Restoration and Hope: The post-exilic context of these genealogies speaks to themes of restoration and hope, as the Israelites sought to rebuild their lives and communities in alignment with God's will.
· Divine Sovereignty: The use of the divine name within personal names reflects a recognition of God's sovereignty and the belief that one's life is ultimately in His hands.

In summary, Bediah, though a minor figure in the biblical record, represents the broader themes of faithfulness, identity, and divine purpose that are woven throughout the Scriptures.
Concordance
Bediah (1 Occurrence)

Ezra 10:35
Benaiah, Bediah, Cheluhu,
(DBY)

Thesaurus
Bediah (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Bediah (1 Occurrence). Ezra
10:35 Benaiah, Bediah, Cheluhu, (DBY). ...
/b/bediah.htm - 6k

Bedridden (1 Occurrence)

/b/bedridden.htm - 6k

Bedei'ah (1 Occurrence)
Bedei'ah. Bedeiah, Bedei'ah. Bediah . Multi-Version Concordance ... Ezra 10:35 Benaiah,
Bedeiah, Cheluhu; (See RSV). Bedeiah, Bedei'ah. Bediah . Reference
/b/bedei'ah.htm - 6k

Cheluhu (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Cheluhu (1 Occurrence). Ezra
10:35 Benaiah, Bediah, Cheluhu, (DBY JPS YLT). ...
/c/cheluhu.htm - 6k

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