The Hebrew word Yᵉdîydâh, represented by H3040, is a proper name meaning beloved. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. As a personal name, its significance is tied directly to the individual who bore it, an Israelitess named Jedidah.
The sole appearance of H3040 is in the identification of Jedidah, the mother of King Josiah 2 Kings 22:1. The text establishes her identity by naming her father, Adaiah, and her hometown, Boscath. As the mother of Josiah, one of Judah's most notable kings, her role is foundational to his lineage.
Several related words help establish the identity and context of Jedidah:
- H2977 Yôʼshîyâh (founded of Jah; Joshijah, the name of two Israelites; Josiah): Jedidah is identified as the mother of King Josiah, a ruler of Judah who enacted major religious reforms 2 Kings 23:24.
- H517 ʼêm (a mother): This word explicitly defines Jedidah's role in the narrative as the mother of King Josiah 2 Kings 22:1.
- H5718 ʻĂdâyâh (Jah has adorned; Adajah, the name of eight Israelites; Adaiah): This is the name of Jedidah's father, providing her direct patrilineal identity 2 Kings 22:1.
- H1218 Botsqath (a swell of ground; Botscath, a place in Palestine; Bozcath, Boskath): This identifies Jedidah's place of origin, Bozcath, a location in Palestine 2 Kings 22:1.
While mentioned only once, the theological context surrounding H3040 is significant due to its association with King Josiah.
- Royal Lineage: As the mother of King Josiah, Jedidah is a figure in the royal line of Judah. Her son was a king prophesied by name to be born to the house of David 1 Kings 13:2.
- Mother of a Reformer: Jedidah gave birth to one of Judah's most righteous kings. Josiah was responsible for putting away idols and abominations and restoring the law of the LORD in Judah and Jerusalem 2 Kings 23:24.
- Meaning of the Name: The name Jedidah itself means "beloved," which reflects her status as the mother of a king who was foundational to a period of spiritual renewal in Judah.
In summary, H3040 Yᵉdîydâh is not a theological term but the proper name of a specific individual. Her single mention in scripture is pivotal, as it identifies her as the mother of the righteous King Josiah. Her importance is therefore derived entirely from her familial connection, placing her in the lineage of a king who would bring significant reform and fulfill a specific prophecy.
TRV