### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Bᵉçôwdᵉyâh**, represented by `{{H1152}}`, means **in (the) counsel of Jehovah**. This name belongs to an Israelite and appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. It is formed from the words for "counsel" and "Jehovah" with a prepositional prefix.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1152}}` is in the account of the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. Besodeiah is identified as the father of Meshullam `{{H4918}}`, one of the men who repaired `{{H2388}}` the old `{{H3465}}` gate `{{H8179}}`. The record in Nehemiah states that Meshullam, the son of Besodeiah, worked alongside Jehoiada to not only repair the gate but also to lay its beams `{{H7136}}` and install its doors `{{H1817}}`, locks `{{H4514}}`, and bars `{{H1280}}` [[Nehemiah 3:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of Besodeiah's only mention:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son (as a builder of the family name)): This word establishes Besodeiah's identity as a father whose **son**, Meshullam, participated in the work of rebuilding Jerusalem's gate [[Nehemiah 3:6]].
* `{{H4918}}` **Mᵉshullâm** (allied; Meshullam): This is the name of Besodeiah's son, one of the key figures responsible for the restoration of the old gate.
* `{{H2388}}` **châzaq** (to fasten upon... repair, fortify): This verb describes the work Meshullam undertook, as he **repaired** the gate, a crucial act of strengthening the city's defenses [[Nehemiah 3:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1152}}` is found entirely in its meaning: "in (the) counsel of Jehovah."
* **Divine Counsel in Restoration:** The name links the practical work of rebuilding Jerusalem's defenses directly to God's divine plan. The participation of the son of a man named "in the counsel of Jehovah" suggests the work was guided and ordained by God.
* **Generational Faithfulness:** Besodeiah is mentioned only as a father, while his son `{{H1121}}` Meshullam `{{H4918}}` performs the labor. This demonstrates the passing of responsibility and faith from one generation to the next in service to God and the community.
* **Tangible Expression of Faith:** The name's abstract concept of divine counsel is connected to the physical work of laying beams, setting doors `{{H1817}}`, and fixing bars `{{H1280}}` [[Nehemiah 3:6]]. It illustrates that following God's counsel often involves practical, hands-on service.
### Summary
In summary, **Bᵉçôwdᵉyâh** `{{H1152}}`, though mentioned only once, provides a meaningful detail in the narrative of Jerusalem's restoration. The name itself, "in (the) counsel of Jehovah," elevates the physical act of gate repair into a work aligned with the divine will. It identifies Besodeiah as the father of Meshullam, highlighting a legacy of service and demonstrating how even a single name in scripture can underscore the theological truth that God's plan is carried out through the faithful, practical work of His people.
TRV