feminine of יְדִיד; beloved; Jedidah, an Israelitess; Jedidah.
Transliteration:Yᵉdîydâh
Pronunciation:yed-ee-daw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The word `{{H3040}}` Yᵉdîydâh is a feminine proper noun, directly derived from its masculine counterpart, `{{H3039}}` יְדִיד (yedid). The root ידד (y-d-d) fundamentally conveys the concept of love, endearment, and being cherished. As such, `{{H3040}}` specifically means "beloved" or "dearly loved one." Its semantic range is quite narrow, functioning exclusively as a personal name that inherently communicates affection and special favor. It does not describe an action or a general attribute, but rather a state of being deeply loved, applied to an individual.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H3040}}` Yᵉdîydâh appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, specifically in:
* [[2 Kings 22:1]]: "Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned thirty-one years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Jedidah the daughter of Adaiah of Bozkath."
In this sole instance, Jedidah is identified as the mother of King Josiah, one of Judah's most significant and righteous kings. The text provides her lineage, noting her father, Adaiah, and her hometown, Bozkath. Beyond this genealogical information, the biblical narrative offers no further details about Jedidah's life, character, or actions. Her importance lies primarily in her role as the mother of a king who would later initiate profound religious reforms and a revival of covenant loyalty in Judah. The significance of her name, "Beloved," while not explicitly commented upon in the text, may subtly foreshadow the beloved status of her son Josiah in the eyes of God, or perhaps reflect a cherished quality within her own family.
### Related Words & Concepts
`{{H3040}}` Yᵉdîydâh is inextricably linked to its masculine root:
* **`{{H3039}}` יְדִיד (yedid):** This masculine form means "beloved," "friend," or "darling." It is used in various contexts, including poetic descriptions (e.g., the beloved in Song of Solomon) and as a title for individuals favored by God. For instance, Benjamin is called "the beloved of the Lord" in [[Deuteronomy 33:12]], and Solomon is given the name Jedidiah ("beloved of Yah") in [[2 Samuel 12:25]], signifying God's special favor.
* **`{{H1730}}` דּוֹד (dod):** While often translated as "uncle," this word also carries the connotation of "beloved" in poetic contexts, particularly in the Song of Solomon, where it frequently refers to the male lover. This highlights a shared semantic field of endearment and affection.
* **`{{H1732}}` דּוֹדָה (dodah):** The feminine counterpart of `{{H1730}}`, meaning "aunt."
* **`{{H2623}}` חֶסֶד (chesed):** Although not etymologically related, this crucial Hebrew term for "loving-kindness," "steadfast love," or "mercy" embodies the divine attribute that often leads to individuals being "beloved." God's chesed is the source of His covenantal love and favor.
* **`{{H157}}` אָהַב (ahav):** The general Hebrew verb "to love." To be "Yedidah" is to be the recipient of such love.
These related terms underscore the pervasive biblical theme of love, both human and divine, and the special status conferred upon those who are "beloved."
### Theological Significance
The name `{{H3040}}` Yᵉdîydâh, meaning "beloved," carries a quiet yet profound theological resonance. In the broader biblical narrative, the concept of being "beloved" is deeply intertwined with God's elective love and covenantal relationship with His people. Israel is often referred to as God's "beloved" (e.g., [[Jeremiah 12:7]]), signifying His unique choice and affection. Individuals, too, are singled out as "beloved" by God, indicating divine favor and purpose.
The fact that Jedidah is the mother of King Josiah, a monarch renowned for his piety and efforts to restore true worship to Judah, subtly connects her name to the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. While her personal story remains untold, her name aligns with the biblical pattern of God raising up and using individuals—even from seemingly ordinary backgrounds—for His extraordinary purposes. The name "Beloved" can be interpreted as a silent testament to God's overarching love and the idea that every individual, no matter how briefly mentioned, is part of His divine tapestry, often "beloved" in His sight and instrumental in His sovereign will. It underscores the theological truth that God's favor extends through generations, shaping the lineage of those who would serve His Kingdom.
### Summary
`{{H3040}}` Yᵉdîydâh is a feminine proper noun meaning "beloved," derived from the root ידד (y-d-d), which signifies love and endearment. Its sole biblical appearance is in [[2 Kings 22:1]], where she is identified as the mother of King Josiah. Despite the brevity of her mention, her name, "Beloved," connects her to the deep biblical theme of divine love and election. As the mother of a righteous king who initiated significant spiritual reforms, Jedidah's name subtly echoes the concept that God's "beloved" individuals play a crucial, if sometimes understated, role in His redemptive history. The name serves as a quiet yet powerful reminder of God's pervasive love and favor within the unfolding narrative of His people and their leaders.
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