Jad'du-a, also spelled Jaddus, is a figure mentioned in the post-exilic period of Jewish history, specifically within the context of the high priesthood. He is recognized as one of the high priests who served during the time of the Persian Empire's influence over Judea. His tenure is noted for its historical significance, particularly in relation to the events surrounding the conquests of Alexander the Great.

Genealogy and Historical Context

Jad'du-a is listed in the genealogical records of the high priests in the Book of Nehemiah. In Nehemiah 12:10-11 , it states: "Jeshua was the father of Joiakim, Joiakim was the father of Eliashib, Eliashib was the father of Joiada, Joiada was the father of Jonathan, and Jonathan was the father of Jaddua." This lineage places Jad'du-a as a descendant of Jeshua, the high priest who returned with Zerubbabel during the initial return from Babylonian exile.

Role and Significance

Jad'du-a's role as high priest is significant during a transformative period in Jewish history. Although the Bible does not provide extensive details about his actions or leadership, extra-biblical sources, such as the writings of Josephus, offer additional insights. According to Josephus, Jad'du-a was the high priest during the time of Alexander the Great's campaign through the Near East. Josephus recounts a legendary encounter between Jad'du-a and Alexander, in which the high priest is said to have met the conqueror and shown him the prophecies of Daniel, which Alexander interpreted as referring to himself. This encounter purportedly led to Alexander sparing Jerusalem and granting the Jews certain privileges.

Religious and Cultural Impact

Jad'du-a's high priesthood is emblematic of the Jewish community's resilience and adaptability during foreign domination. His leadership is situated in a period where the Jewish people were navigating their identity and religious practices under Persian rule, soon to be followed by Hellenistic influence. The high priesthood, as represented by figures like Jad'du-a, was central to maintaining the religious and cultural continuity of the Jewish people during these times of external pressure and change.

Legacy

While the biblical text provides limited information about Jad'du-a, his mention in the genealogical records underscores the importance of the high priestly line in Jewish history. His association with the era of Alexander the Great, as preserved in Jewish tradition and historical writings, highlights the intersection of Jewish and world history during the post-exilic period. Jad'du-a's legacy is thus intertwined with the broader narrative of Jewish perseverance and faithfulness amidst the shifting powers of the ancient world.Jad'du-a (3 Occurrences)

Nehemiah 10:21
Meshezabel, Zadok, Jaddua;
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 12:11
and Joiada begot Jonathan and Jonathan begot Jaddua.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 12:22
The Levites in the days of Eliashib, Joiada, and Johanan, and Jaddua, were recorded heads of fathers' houses; also the priests, in the reign of Darius the Persian.
(See RSV)

Jad'du-a (3 Occurrences)
Jad'du-a. Jaddua, Jad'du-a. Jaddus . Multi-Version Concordance Jad'du-a (3
Occurrences). Nehemiah 10:21 Meshezabel, Zadok, Jaddua; (See RSV). ...
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Jaddua (3 Occurrences)

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Jaddus

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