Iphdeiah is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin. His name appears in the Old Testament, specifically in the First Book of Chronicles. The name "Iphdeiah" is of Hebrew origin, and it is often understood to mean "Yahweh will redeem" or "Yahweh redeems," reflecting a common theme in Hebrew names that emphasize divine intervention and redemption.

Biblical Reference:

Iphdeiah is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 8:25, within the genealogical listings of the descendants of Benjamin. The passage reads: "And Iphedeiah and Penuel were the sons of Shashak" . This brief mention places Iphdeiah within the broader context of the Benjamite lineage, which is significant in understanding the tribal divisions and familial structures of ancient Israel.

Tribal Context:

The tribe of Benjamin holds a unique place among the tribes of Israel. As the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, Benjamin's descendants played a crucial role in the history of Israel. The tribe is known for its warriors and for being the tribe of King Saul, the first king of Israel. The genealogies in 1 Chronicles serve to establish the historical and familial connections among the Israelites, emphasizing the continuity of God's covenant with His people through their lineage.

Theological Significance:

The mention of Iphdeiah, though brief, contributes to the larger narrative of God's faithfulness to His covenant people. Each name in the genealogies represents a link in the chain of God's redemptive history. The name "Iphdeiah," meaning "Yahweh will redeem," underscores the hope and expectation of divine redemption that permeates the Old Testament. This theme is central to the biblical narrative, pointing forward to the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ.

Genealogical Importance:

Genealogies in the Bible, such as the one in which Iphdeiah is mentioned, serve multiple purposes. They establish legal and tribal identities, affirm land rights, and trace the fulfillment of God's promises through successive generations. For the post-exilic community, these records were vital in re-establishing their identity and heritage after the Babylonian exile.

Cultural and Historical Context:

Understanding the cultural and historical context of Iphdeiah's mention provides insight into the social structures of ancient Israel. The genealogies reflect a patriarchal society where lineage and descent were crucial for maintaining tribal integrity and inheritance rights. The tribe of Benjamin, located in the central hill country of Israel, was strategically significant and often involved in the political and military affairs of the nation.

In summary, while Iphdeiah is a minor figure in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles highlights the importance of each individual in the unfolding account of God's people. His name serves as a reminder of the hope and assurance of redemption that is a central theme throughout Scripture.IPHDEIAH

if-de'-ya (yiphdeyah, "Yah redeems"; the King James Version Iphedeiah): A descendant of Benjamin (1 Chronicles 8:25).

3301. Yiphdeyah -- "Yah will ransom," an Israelite
... Iphedeiah. Word Origin from padah and Yah Definition "Yah will ransom," an
Isr. NASB Word Usage Iphdeiah (1). Jiphdejah, an Israelite. ...
/hebrew/3301.htm - 6kIphdeiah (1 Occurrence)
...IPHDEIAH. if-de'-ya (yiphdeyah, "Yah redeems"; the King James Version Iphedeiah):
A descendant of Benjamin (1 Chronicles 8:25). ...Iphdeiah (1 Occurrence). ...
/i/iphdeiah.htm - 6k

Iphdei'ah (1 Occurrence)
Iphdei'ah. Iphdeiah, Iphdei'ah. Iphedeiah . ... Iphdei'ah (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles
8:25 and Iphdeiah, and Penuel, were the sons of Shashak. (See RSV). ...
/i/iphdei'ah.htm - 6k

Iota (1 Occurrence)

/i/iota.htm - 6k

Penu'el (7 Occurrences)
... (See RSV). 1 Chronicles 8:25 and Iphdeiah, and Penuel, were the sons of Shashak.
(See RSV). Penuel, Penu'el. Penury . Reference Bible.
/p/penu'el.htm - 8k

Penuel (7 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). 1 Chronicles 8:25 and Iphdeiah, and Penuel,
the sons of Shashak, (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). ...
/p/penuel.htm - 9k

Shashak (2 Occurrences)
... YLT NAS RSV NIV). 1 Chronicles 8:25 and Iphdeiah, and Penuel, the sons
of Shashak, (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). ...
/s/shashak.htm - 7k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus