### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H3047}}` (Yâdâʻ) functions as a proper noun, identifying an individual. Its base definition indicates a derivation "from יָדַע" (yada'), the verb meaning "to know." Therefore, the name Jada carries the etymological sense of "He knows," "One who knows," or "Known (of God)." Unlike a common noun or verb, a proper noun like Jada does not possess a semantic range in the typical sense, but its meaning is deeply rooted in the implications of its verbal origin. It points to a state of being known, or an act of knowing, often with a theological resonance concerning divine knowledge or human understanding.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Jada (`{{H3047}}`) appears exclusively in the genealogies of the book of 1 Chronicles. He is mentioned twice:
* [[1 Chronicles 2:28]]: "The sons of Onam were Shammai and Jada. The sons of Shammai were Nadab and Abishur." Here, Jada is identified as one of the two sons of Onam.
* [[1 Chronicles 2:32]]: "The sons of Jada, the brother of Shammai, were Jether and Jonathan; and Jether died without sons." This verse further details Jada's lineage, identifying him as Shammai's brother and listing his own sons, Jether and Jonathan.
Jada is a descendant of Judah, tracing his lineage through Perez, Hezron, and Jerahmeel. These genealogical lists in 1 Chronicles serve a crucial purpose: they affirm the continuity of God's covenant promises through specific families, particularly the line of Judah, from which the Davidic monarchy and ultimately the Messiah would emerge. Jada's inclusion, though brief, underscores the meticulous preservation of these records and the divine oversight of Israel's history. His role is primarily to bridge generations within the tribe of Judah, contributing to the broader narrative of God's faithfulness to His chosen people.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word to `{{H3047}}` is its root verb, `{{H3045}}` (yada'), "to know." This verb is one of the most fundamental and rich terms in the Hebrew Bible, encompassing a wide spectrum of meanings beyond mere intellectual apprehension:
* **Experiential Knowledge:** To "know" can mean to experience intimately, as in the covenant relationship between God and Israel ([[Jeremiah 24:7]]) or the intimate union between a husband and wife ([[Genesis 4:1]]).
* **Relational Knowledge:** God "knows" His people in a deep, personal, and covenantal way ([[Amos 3:2]]; [[Psalm 1:6]]). Conversely, for humanity to "know" God is to enter into a relationship of obedience, trust, and worship ([[Hosea 6:3]]; [[John 17:3]]).
* **Recognition and Acknowledgment:** To know someone can imply recognizing their authority or identity ([[Exodus 5:2]]).
* **Discernment and Wisdom:** Knowledge often implies understanding, wisdom, and the ability to discern good from evil ([[Proverbs 1:7]]).
The name Jada, therefore, subtly connects this individual to the profound biblical concept of "knowing." Whether it implies that Jada was a man of knowledge, or more likely, that he was "known" by God, or perhaps that God "knows" all things, including the intricate details of human lineage, the connection to `{{H3045}}` imbues the proper noun with a layer of theological depth.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Jada (`{{H3047}}`) primarily stems from two aspects: the meaning of his name and his placement within the biblical genealogies.
1. **Thematic Resonance of "Knowing":** The name "Jada," meaning "He knows" or "Known," subtly echoes the pervasive biblical theme of divine omniscience and relational knowledge. God's knowledge is not abstract but deeply personal and active, extending to every individual and every detail of history ([[Psalm 139:1-6]]). To be "known" by God is a profound state of being chosen and cared for within the covenant ([[Galatians 4:9]]). While Jada is a minor figure, his name serves as a quiet reminder of God's intimate acquaintance with all humanity and His particular knowledge of His people.
2. **Genealogical Integrity and Divine Faithfulness:** Jada's inclusion in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles highlights God's meticulous preservation of lineages, especially the line of Judah, which was critical for the fulfillment of the messianic promise. These lists are not mere historical records but theological affirmations of God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant. Every individual, including Jada, plays a part in the unfolding divine plan, demonstrating that God's purposes are worked out through specific people in history. The very act of recording these names signifies God's remembrance and His commitment to His promises across generations.
### Summary
`{{H3047}}` (Yâdâʻ) is a proper noun identifying Jada, a descendant of Judah mentioned in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles. Etymologically rooted in the verb `{{H3045}}` ("to know"), his name likely means "He knows" or "Known." Though a minor figure, Jada's presence in the biblical record underscores the meticulous nature of God's preservation of lineages, particularly those connected to the Davidic and messianic lines. Furthermore, his name subtly resonates with the profound theological concept of "knowing" in the Bible, encompassing God's intimate knowledge of humanity and humanity's call to know God. Thus, Jada stands as a quiet testament to God's faithfulness in history and His personal acquaintance with all His creation.
TRV