### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma יוֹיָדָע (Yôwyâdâʻ), Strong's number `{{H3111}}`, is identified as a shortened form of יְהוֹיָדָע (Yᵉhôwyâdâʻ), Strong's number `{{H3077}}`. Both names derive from the same theological root, combining a shortened form of the divine name Yahweh ("Yo-" or "Yeho-") with the verb יָדַע (yāḏaʿ), Strong's number `{{H3045}}`, meaning "to know." Therefore, the core meaning of Yôwyâdâʻ is "Yahweh knows" or "Yahweh has known." This reflects a common practice in ancient Israelite onomastics, where personal names served as theological statements, expressing faith in God's attributes or a hope concerning His action. The semantic range thus encompasses divine omniscience, intimate acquaintance, and recognition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Joiada (Yôwyâdâʻ, `{{H3111}}`) appears in the biblical text referring to two distinct individuals:
1. **Joiada, father of Benaiah:** This Joiada is primarily known as the father of Benaiah, a prominent military commander under King David and King Solomon. Benaiah is frequently identified as "Benaiah son of Jehoiada" (using the longer form, `{{H3077}}`), for instance, in [[2 Samuel 8:18]], [[2 Samuel 20:23]], [[2 Samuel 23:20]], [[1 Kings 1:8]], [[1 Kings 1:32]], [[1 Kings 1:38]], [[1 Kings 1:44]], [[1 Kings 2:25]], [[1 Kings 2:29]], [[1 Kings 2:34]], [[1 Kings 2:35]], [[1 Kings 4:4]], [[1 Chronicles 11:22]], [[1 Chronicles 18:17]], and [[1 Chronicles 27:34]]. While Joiada himself is not a central figure, his son Benaiah's loyalty and instrumental role in securing Solomon's throne underscore the significance of this family line during the early monarchy. The consistent use of the longer form "Jehoiada" for Benaiah's father in most instances suggests the interchangeability and close relationship between `{{H3111}}` and `{{H3077}}`.
2. **Joiada, son of Eliashib the high priest:** This Joiada served as a high priest during the post-exilic period, specifically mentioned in the book of Nehemiah. He is listed in the priestly lineage in [[Nehemiah 12:10]] and [[Nehemiah 12:22]]. A notable event involving his family is recorded in [[Nehemiah 13:28]], where one of his sons married a daughter of Sanballat the Horonite, a formidable opponent of Nehemiah's efforts to rebuild Jerusalem's walls and restore its spiritual integrity. This intermarriage with a foreign, hostile family was a grave offense against the Mosaic Law and the covenant, leading Nehemiah to expel the offending priest. This incident highlights the challenges faced by the restored community in maintaining covenant fidelity and priestly purity, even within the high priestly line.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is יְהוֹיָדָע (Yᵉhôwyâdâʻ), `{{H3077}}`, from which יוֹיָדָע (Yôwyâdâʻ) is a variant. The shared etymology and meaning ("Yahweh knows") bind them intrinsically. The root verb יָדַע (yāḏaʿ), `{{H3045}}`, meaning "to know," is foundational, extending to concepts of intimate knowledge, recognition, and even covenantal relationship.
The occurrence of Joiada within the high priestly lineage in Nehemiah connects this word study to broader themes of **priesthood, lineage, and covenant purity**. The incident in [[Nehemiah 13:28]] further links it to the concept of **holiness and separation** for the people of God, particularly for those in leadership roles.
Theophoric names, which incorporate a divine element, are a significant related concept. Names like Joiada reflect a deep theological conviction or aspiration, emphasizing God's attributes and His active involvement in human lives and history.
### Theological Significance
The name Joiada, meaning "Yahweh knows," carries profound theological significance. It speaks directly to the **omniscience of God**, affirming that the Lord is not ignorant of human affairs, but possesses perfect and complete knowledge of all things—past, present, and future, including the hidden thoughts and intentions of the heart. This divine knowledge is not merely intellectual apprehension but often implies **intimate acquaintance and providential oversight**.
In a covenantal context, "to know" can also signify a chosen relationship, as when God says, "I have known you by name" ([[Exodus 33:12]]) or "You only have I known of all the families of the earth" ([[Amos 3:2]]). Thus, Joiada can be understood as a person known by God, or one whose life acknowledges God's knowing presence.
The presence of Joiada within the priestly line, despite the later blemish of his son's intermarriage, underscores God's persistent knowledge of His people, their faithfulness, and their failings. Even when human leaders falter, the name serves as a quiet reminder of God's unchanging character and His ultimate awareness of all things, which informs His justice and mercy. It points to a God who is intimately involved in the lives of His chosen, both in their triumphs and their transgressions.
### Summary
The Hebrew name יוֹיָדָע (Yôwyâdâʻ), `{{H3111}}`, or Joiada, is a shortened form of יְהוֹיָדָע (Yᵉhôwyâdâʻ), `{{H3077}}`, both meaning "Yahweh knows." This name is borne by two individuals in the biblical narrative: the father of Benaiah, a commander under David and Solomon, and a high priest in the post-exilic period during the time of Nehemiah. The name itself is a profound theological statement, emphasizing God's attribute of omniscience and His intimate, providential knowledge of His creation and covenant people. Its occurrences highlight themes of divine awareness, the importance of lineage, and the challenges of maintaining covenant fidelity within Israel, particularly within the sacred office of the priesthood.
TRV