### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Zᵉbadyâh**, represented by `{{H2069}}`, means "Jah has given". This name appears 9 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible, identifying nine different Israelites. The name is a compound of the Hebrew words for "give" and "Jah," reflecting a common practice of incorporating the divine name to acknowledge a person as a gift from God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H2069}}` is used to identify several individuals in different roles within Israel. One Zebadiah was appointed as the **ruler** `{{H5057}}` of the house of Judah, responsible for all the **king's** `{{H4428}}` matters [[2 Chronicles 19:11]]. Another was a **Levite** `{{H3881}}` who was sent with other officials to teach throughout Judah [[2 Chronicles 17:8]]. The name also appears in military contexts, such as Zebadiah the son of **Asahel** `{{H6214}}`, who served after his father in a monthly course as a captain [[1 Chronicles 27:7]]. Other individuals named Zebadiah are listed among the sons of a priest [[Ezra 10:20]], the sons of **Meshelemiah** `{{H4920}}` the gatekeeper [[1 Chronicles 26:2]], and the sons of **Shephatiah** `{{H8203}}` who returned from exile [[Ezra 8:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several other names share the "Jah" element and appear alongside individuals named Zebadiah, highlighting a shared cultural and religious context:
* `{{H568}}` **'Amaryâh** (Jah has said (i.e. promised)): This name signifies a divine promise. **Amariah** `{{H568}}` the **chief** `{{H7218}}` **priest** `{{H3548}}` served alongside Zebadiah, overseeing the matters of the LORD while Zebadiah handled the king's matters [[2 Chronicles 19:11]].
* `{{H2148}}` **Zᵉkaryâh** (Jah has remembered): This name reflects God's faithfulness. **Zechariah** `{{H2148}}` is listed as the firstborn son of **Meshelemiah** `{{H4920}}`, with Zebadiah being the third son [[1 Chronicles 26:2]].
* `{{H5418}}` **Nᵉthanyâh** (given of Jah): This name carries a meaning nearly identical to Zebadiah. **Nethaniah** `{{H5418}}` was one of the **Levites** `{{H3881}}` sent with Zebadiah by King Jehoshaphat to teach the people [[2 Chronicles 17:8]].
### Theological Significance
The use of the name Zebadiah across scripture highlights several important themes:
* **Service in Leadership:** Individuals named Zebadiah are consistently found in positions of responsibility. This includes the **ruler** `{{H5057}}` for the house of Judah [[2 Chronicles 19:11]], a military captain [[1 Chronicles 27:7]], and a **Levite** `{{H3881}}` teacher [[2 Chronicles 17:8]].
* **Genealogical Importance:** The name frequently appears in lists that establish lineage and tribal identity, such as among the sons of Benjamin ([[1 Chronicles 8:15]], 17) and those returning from exile [[Ezra 8:8]], underscoring the role of family in the nation's structure.
* **A Gift from God:** The name itself is a declaration of faith, acknowledging that a child is a gift from God. This is part of a broader biblical pattern of theophoric names that express a relationship with and dependence on God.
### Summary
In summary, **Zᵉbadyâh** `{{H2069}}` is more than just a personal identifier; it is a statement of faith meaning "Jah has given." It is assigned to nine distinct Israelites who occupied roles crucial to the civil, military, and religious life of the nation. The various contexts in which the name appears illustrate the biblical worldview where individuals are seen as gifts from God, designated for specific service within the covenant community.
TRV