### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Yôwʻêd**, represented by `{{H3133}}`, identifies a specific Israelite. Derived from its root, the name means **appointer**. This name appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying its specific and limited role in the biblical record.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of **Yôwʻêd** `{{H3133}}` is found within a genealogical record in the book of Nehemiah. This list details the **sons** `{{H1121}}` of **Benjamin** `{{H1144}}` who were among the inhabitants of Jerusalem after the return from exile [[Nehemiah 11:7]]. In this lineage, **Yôwʻêd** is named as the grandfather of **Sallu** `{{H5543}}` and the son of **Pedaiah** `{{H6305}}`. His inclusion is purely for the purpose of establishing the ancestry of a key family within the restored community of the tribe of Benjamin.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the context of [[Nehemiah 11:7]] provide a clearer understanding of the setting:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is fundamental to the passage, used repeatedly to construct the family line. As "a builder of the family name," it establishes the generational links connecting Sallu back to his ancestors, including **Yôwʻêd**.
* `{{H1144}}` **Binyâmîyn** (Benjamin): This identifies the tribe to which **Yôwʻêd** and his descendants belonged. The tribe of Benjamin was one of the two primary tribes, along with Judah, that formed the southern kingdom and returned to resettle the land.
* `{{H6305}}` **Pᵉdâyâh** (Jah has ransomed): As the father of **Yôwʻêd**, the name Pedaiah is thematically significant. It reflects the concept of God's redemption, a powerful theme for the Israelites who had recently been restored to their land.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H3133}}` is not derived from the actions of the individual but from his place within the biblical narrative.
* **Genealogical Integrity:** The mention of **Yôwʻêd** highlights the critical importance of maintaining precise ancestral records for the returning exiles. This was essential for establishing identity, tribal affiliation, and community structure in the rebuilt Jerusalem [[Nehemiah 11:7]].
* **Continuity of the Covenant:** The meticulous recording of lineages, including otherwise unknown figures like **Yôwʻêd**, demonstrates God's faithfulness to His covenant people. It affirms the preservation and continuation of the tribes, such as **Benjamin** `{{H1144}}`, as part of God's unfolding plan.
* **Individual Role in Community:** Though mentioned only once, **Yôwʻêd** serves as a vital link in the history of his family. His name, meaning "appointer," and his position in the lineage of a key Benjamite family underscore that every person had a place in the fabric of the nation.
### Summary
In summary, **Yôwʻêd** `{{H3133}}` is a name known exclusively through a single genealogical reference. His importance is not in personal deeds but in his function within the biblical text: to validate the lineage of a Benjamite family returning to Jerusalem. The inclusion of his name illustrates the scriptural emphasis on ancestral identity, the continuity of the tribes, and the role every individual plays in the larger story of God's people.
TRV