### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Hôwdavyâh**, represented by `{{H1938}}`, is defined as **majesty of Jah**. It is derived from the words הוֹד (hod) and יָהּ (yah). This name appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, identifying three different Israelites.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1938}}` functions as a personal name within genealogical and historical records. One Hodaviah is listed in the lineage of the tribe of Benjamin{H1144} as an ancestor of Sallu{H5543} [[1 Chronicles 9:7]]. Another mention identifies the children{H1121} of Hodaviah as a family of Levites{H3881} who were counted among those returning from exile [[Ezra 2:40]]. A third individual named Hodaviah is recorded as one of the heads{H7218} of his father's house{H1004}, a man described as mighty{H1368} and famous{H8034} [[1 Chronicles 5:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding the name Hodaviah:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is crucial for establishing the genealogical context where `{{H1938}}` is found, linking individuals through lineage as either "the son of Hodaviah" or "the children of Hodaviah" ([[1 Chronicles 9:7]], [[Ezra 2:40]]).
* `{{H3881}}` **Lêvîyîy** (a Levite): This term specifies the tribal identity of one of Hodaviah's family lines, connecting his descendants to the priestly tribe responsible for temple service [[Ezra 2:40]].
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (powerful): This descriptor is applied to the Hodaviah mentioned in 1 Chronicles, emphasizing his status as a valiant and mighty man within his tribe [[1 Chronicles 5:24]].
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh** (the head): This word defines the leadership role of one of the men named Hodaviah, who was a chief or principal figure in his ancestral house [[1 Chronicles 5:24]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1938}}` is rooted in its meaning and the roles of the individuals who bore the name.
* **Genealogical Identity:** The name `{{H1938}}` is preserved in key tribal records, underscoring the importance of lineage within the nation of Israel, particularly for a family of Benjamin{H1144} [[1 Chronicles 9:7]] and a line of Levites{H3881} [[Ezra 2:40]].
* **Divine Ascription:** The name itself, meaning "majesty of Jah," serves as a declaration of faith. It directly attributes majesty and honor to God, reflecting a common practice of embedding theological statements into personal names.
* **Leadership and Valor:** One bearer of the name is explicitly recognized as a head{H7218} of his father's house{H1} and a mighty{H1368} man{H582} of valour{H2428}, linking the name to qualities of strength and leadership that were vital to the community [[1 Chronicles 5:24]].
### Summary
In summary, **Hôwdavyâh** `{{H1938}}` is more than just a name; it is a marker of identity and a statement of faith. It identifies three distinct individuals in Israel's history: a Benjaminite ancestor, the progenitor of a Levite family, and a valiant tribal leader. The name's meaning, "majesty of Jah," infuses these historical records with a theological dimension, illustrating how personal and family identity in scripture is often connected to the glory and honor of God.
TRV