Igdali'ah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Jeremiah. He is identified as the father of Shemaiah, a notable figure among the captives in Babylon. The name Igdali'ah itself is of Hebrew origin, and while its exact meaning is not definitively known, it is often interpreted as "Yahweh is great" or "Yahweh is exalted."

Biblical Reference:

Igdali'ah is mentioned in Jeremiah 29:3, which provides context for his significance during the time of the Babylonian exile. The verse reads: "He entrusted the letter to Elasah son of Shaphan and to Gemariah son of Hilkiah, whom Zedekiah king of Judah sent to King Nebuchadnezzar in Babylon. It stated: 'This is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says to all the exiles I carried away from Jerusalem to Babylon.'" (Jeremiah 29:3). In this passage, Igdali'ah is indirectly referenced as the father of Shemaiah, who is one of the recipients of the letter sent by the prophet Jeremiah.

Historical and Theological Context:

The context of Igdali'ah's mention is significant in understanding the historical and theological backdrop of the Babylonian exile. During this period, the Kingdom of Judah was under the dominion of Babylon, and many of its inhabitants, including the prophet Jeremiah, were exiled. Jeremiah's letter, which was sent to the exiles, contained messages of hope and instructions from God, urging the people to seek the welfare of the city where they were taken and to pray to the LORD on its behalf (Jeremiah 29:7).

Igdali'ah's son, Shemaiah, is noted in the same chapter for his opposition to Jeremiah's message. Shemaiah the Nehelamite sent letters in his own name to Jerusalem, challenging the authority of Jeremiah and advocating for a different approach to the exile. This opposition highlights the diverse responses among the exiles to the prophetic messages and the challenges faced by the community in maintaining faith and identity in a foreign land.

Significance:

While Igdali'ah himself is not a central figure in the biblical narrative, his mention serves as a link to the broader account of the Jewish exiles in Babylon. His familial connection to Shemaiah places him within the context of the complex dynamics of leadership, prophecy, and community life during a pivotal moment in Israel's history. The reference to Igdali'ah underscores the importance of family lineage and the roles individuals played in the unfolding of God's plans for His people, even in times of judgment and displacement.

In summary, Igdali'ah's mention in the Book of Jeremiah, though brief, contributes to the rich tapestry of biblical history, illustrating the interconnectedness of individuals and events in the divine narrative.Igdali'ah (1 Occurrence)

Jeremiah 35:4
and bring them into the house of Jehovah, unto the chamber of the sons of Hanan son of Igdaliah, a man of God, that 'is' near to the chamber of the princes, that 'is' above the chamber of Maaseiah son of Shallum, keeper of the threshold;
(See RSV)

Igdali'ah (1 Occurrence)
Igdali'ah. Igdaliah, Igdali'ah. Igeal . Multi-Version Concordance
Igdali'ah (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 35:4 and bring them into the ...
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Igeal (1 Occurrence)

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Igdaliah (1 Occurrence)

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