### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yᵉdûwthûwn**, represented by `{{H3038}}`, is the name of an Israelite whose name means **laudatory**. It appears **17 times** in **14 unique verses** and is primarily associated with the organization of musical worship in ancient Israel. The name itself, which is probably from the root word for giving thanks `{{H3034}}`, reflects the central purpose of his ministry.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Jeduthun `{{H3038}}` is consistently named as one of the three principal leaders of music appointed by King David, alongside Heman `{{H1968}}` and Asaph `{{H623}}` [[1 Chronicles 25:1]]. His role was not merely performance; he was separated `{{H914}}` to the service `{{H5656}}` of prophesying `{{H5012}}` with musical instruments [[1 Chronicles 25:1]]. Several psalms are dedicated "To the chief Musician `{{H5329}}`, even to Jeduthun" ([[Psalms 39:1]], [[Psalms 62:1]]), underscoring his high rank. He is also identified as "the king's `{{H4428}}` seer `{{H2374}}`," suggesting a role of spiritual insight and counsel within the royal court [[2 Chronicles 35:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for Jeduthun's role and identity:
* `{{H1968}}` **Hêymân** (faithful): A chief musician who was appointed with Jeduthun and Asaph to lead the service of song and give thanks `{{H3034}}` to the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[1 Chronicles 16:41]].
* `{{H623}}` **ʼÂçâph** (collector): The third key musical leader who, along with his sons `{{H1121}}`, served beside Heman and Jeduthun in the ministry of prophesying with instruments [[1 Chronicles 25:1]].
* `{{H5012}}` **nâbâʼ** (to prophesy): This describes the primary function of Jeduthun and his sons, who prophesied with a harp `{{H3658}}` to give thanks and praise the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[1 Chronicles 25:3]].
* `{{H3034}}` **yâdâh** (to give thanks, praise): The likely root of Jeduthun's name, this word captures the essence of his ministry, which was to "give thanks" to the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[1 Chronicles 25:3]].
* `{{H5329}}` **nâtsach** (chief musician, excel): A title applied directly to Jeduthun in the superscriptions of psalms, indicating his role as an overseer of the Temple's musical worship [[Psalms 77:1]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of Jeduthun `{{H3038}}` is seen in several key themes:
* **Ordained Worship:** Jeduthun's appointment by David and the captains `{{H8269}}` of the host `{{H6635}}` demonstrates that worship in Israel was a formally structured ministry, not a casual activity [[1 Chronicles 25:1]].
* **Prophetic Music:** The ministry of Jeduthun and his sons was explicitly to "prophesy" `{{H5012}}` with instruments, elevating music from mere art to a means of divine communication and revelation [[1 Chronicles 25:3]].
* **Generational Legacy:** As a father `{{H1}}`, Jeduthun led his own sons `{{H1121}}`—Gedaliah, Zeri, Jeshaiah, Hashabiah, and Mattithiah, with the text noting there were six `{{H8337}}` total—in the service of the house `{{H1004}}` of God `{{H430}}` ([[1 Chronicles 25:3]], [[1 Chronicles 25:6]]). His lineage continued this service for generations ([[1 Chronicles 9:16]], [[Nehemiah 11:17]]).
* **Temple Service:** Jeduthun and his sons served with various musical instruments, including cymbals `{{H4700}}`, psalteries `{{H5035}}`, and harps `{{H3658}}`, and were also appointed as porters `{{H7778}}` for the house of God ([[1 Chronicles 16:42]], [[2 Chronicles 5:12]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3038}}` Jeduthun is far more than a name in a genealogy; he is a foundational figure in Israel’s formal worship. His name, "laudatory," is a direct reflection of his life's work of prophesying through music to give thanks `{{H3034}}` and praise `{{H1984}}` to God. Together with Asaph and Heman, he formed a leadership core that established a lasting legacy of organized, inspired, and generational worship, illustrating the profound importance of music in the spiritual life of the nation.
TRV