### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gᵉdîyâh**, represented by `{{H1429}}`, means **a young female goat** or **kid**. As the feminine form of גְּדִי, its appearance is highly specific, occurring just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a distinct and gentle pastoral image within its scriptural context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1429}}` is in the Song of Solomon, where a woman, addressed as the "fairest among women," is given guidance. If she does not know where to find her beloved, she is instructed to "go thy way forth by the footsteps of the flock, and feed thy **kids** beside the shepherds' tents" [[Song of Solomon 1:8]]. Here, the word contributes to a tender scene of seeking, pastoral life, and caring for the young.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Song of Solomon 1:8]] enrich its meaning:
* `{{H7462}}` **râʻâh** (to tend a flock; shepherd): This word is used for both the action of feeding the **kids** and for identifying the **shepherds** whose tents provide a landmark. This same term is famously used to describe God's relationship with His people, as in "The LORD is my **shepherd**" [[Psalms 23:1]].
* `{{H6629}}` **tsôʼn** (a collective name for a flock): The path to the place of nurture is found by following the footsteps of the **flock**, of which the **kids** are a part. This term is often used figuratively for God's people, the **sheep** of His pasture [[Psalms 100:3]].
* `{{H6119}}` **ʻâqêb** (a heel; hence, a track; footsteps): This provides the direct instruction for how to find the way, by following the established **footsteps** of the flock [[Song of Solomon 1:8]].
* `{{H4908}}` **mishkân** (a residence; tent): The destination is a place of provision and safety, the shepherds' **tents**. The word is also used for the Lord's holy dwelling place, the **Tabernacle** [[Exodus 40:34]].
* `{{H3303}}` **yâpheh** (beautiful; fair): The person being instructed to care for her **kids** is described as the **fairest** among women, linking the pastoral imagery to a theme of beauty [[Song of Solomon 1:8]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual significance of `{{H1429}}` is derived entirely from its metaphorical role in its single verse.
* **Pastoral Guidance:** The instruction to follow the flock to care for the **kids** symbolizes finding one's way by adhering to the community of faith. When one does not **know** `{{H3045}}` the way, the path is revealed by following the established tracks of others.
* **Nurture and Care:** The act of feeding the **kids** represents responsibility, nurture, and the gentle care required for the young and vulnerable. This act takes place beside the shepherds' tents, a place of safety and provision.
* **Youth and Dependence:** As a "young female goat," the word inherently signifies youth and dependence. The **kid** requires direction and sustenance, which is provided through the loving guidance given in the verse.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H1429}}` **gᵉdîyâh** is among the rarest of biblical words, its single use is potent. It functions as a key element in a pastoral metaphor about seeking and finding direction. It encapsulates themes of gentle nurture, the safety found by following the faithful flock, and the simple beauty of caring for the young within a community, all within the context of a love poem in the Song of Solomon.
TRV