Meaning and Etymology:
The name "Jedidiah" (Hebrew: יְדִידְיָהּ, Yedidyah) means "Beloved of the LORD" or "Friend of God." It is a theophoric name, incorporating the divine name Yah, a shortened form of Yahweh, the covenant name of God in the Hebrew Bible.

Biblical References:
Jedidiah is a name given by God to Solomon, the son of King David and Bathsheba. This name is mentioned in 2 Samuel 12:24-25: "Then David comforted his wife Bathsheba, and he went to her and lay with her. She gave birth to a son, and they named him Solomon. Now the LORD loved the child and sent word through Nathan the prophet to name him Jedidiah because the LORD loved him" .

Context and Significance:
The context of the naming of Jedidiah is significant in the narrative of King David's life. After the death of their first child, which was a consequence of David's sin with Bathsheba, the birth of Solomon represents a moment of divine grace and favor. The name Jedidiah signifies God's love and approval, marking Solomon as a child of promise and divine purpose.

Theological Implications:
The name Jedidiah underscores the theme of divine election and favor. Despite the circumstances of his birth, Solomon is chosen by God to succeed David as king and to build the Temple in Jerusalem. This divine favor is a testament to God's sovereignty and grace, highlighting that God's purposes prevail even amidst human failure.

Role in Biblical Narrative:
Solomon, known primarily by this name, becomes one of the most significant figures in the Old Testament. His reign is marked by wisdom, wealth, and the building of the First Temple, fulfilling the covenantal promise to David. The name Jedidiah, though not commonly used in reference to Solomon, serves as a reminder of the special relationship between Solomon and God.

Cultural and Historical Context:
In the ancient Near Eastern context, names were often reflective of one's character or destiny. The giving of a divine name by God through the prophet Nathan would have been seen as a powerful affirmation of Solomon's future role and the divine plan for Israel.

Legacy and Influence:
The legacy of Jedidiah, or Solomon, is profound in both Jewish and Christian traditions. Solomon's wisdom, as depicted in the biblical narrative, becomes proverbial, and his writings, such as Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon, are integral to biblical literature. The name Jedidiah, though less frequently used, encapsulates the divine love and purpose that characterized Solomon's life and reign.Jedidi'ah (1 Occurrence)

2 Samuel 12:25
and He sent by the hand of Nathan the prophet, and he called his name Jedidiah, for the LORD'S sake.
(See RSV)

Jedidi'ah (1 Occurrence)
Jedidi'ah. Jedidiah, Jedidi'ah. Jedithun . Multi-Version Concordance
Jedidi'ah (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 12:25 and He sent by the ...
/j/jedidi'ah.htm - 6k

Jedithun (1 Occurrence)

/j/jedithun.htm - 6k

Jedidiah (1 Occurrence)

/j/jedidiah.htm - 7k

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