### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H3136}}`, transliterated as Yôwtsâdâq (יוֹצָדָק), is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates that it is a contracted or shortened form of `{{H3087}}`, Yᵉhôwtsâdâq (יְהוֹצָדָק). The longer form reveals the theological depth of the name. It is composed of two primary elements: "Yᵉhô-" (יְהוֹ-), a theophoric element representing the divine name YHWH (יהוה), and "-tsâdâq" (צָדָק), derived from the root צָדַק (tsadaq), meaning "to be righteous," "to be just," or "to be vindicated." Therefore, the full meaning of Yôwtsâdâq is "YHWH is righteous" or "YHWH makes righteous." As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to identifying a specific individual, but the inherent meaning of the name carries significant theological weight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Yôwtsâdâq (Jozadak or Jotsadak) appears exclusively in the post-exilic books of Ezra, Nehemiah, Haggai, and Zechariah. He is consistently identified as the father of Jeshua (also known as Joshua), the High Priest who returned with Zerubbabel from the Babylonian exile to lead the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem.
* In Ezra, Jozadak is mentioned as the father of Jeshua, who, alongside Zerubbabel, was instrumental in re-establishing the altar and laying the foundation of the second Temple ([[Ezra 3:2]], [[Ezra 3:8]]). He is again noted in connection with Jeshua and the ongoing work of the Temple ([[Ezra 5:2]]). His son is also listed among those who had foreign wives, though Jozadak himself is not implicated ([[Ezra 10:18]]).
* Nehemiah briefly mentions "Jeshua the son of Jozadak" in a genealogical listing of the priests and Levites who served in the time of Joiakim, Jeshua's son ([[Nehemiah 12:26]]).
* The prophetic books of Haggai and Zechariah frequently refer to "Joshua the son of Jozadak, the high priest" ([[Haggai 1:1]], [[Haggai 1:12]], [[Haggai 1:14]], [[Haggai 2:2]], [[Haggai 2:4]]; [[Zechariah 6:11]]). These prophets address Joshua directly, encouraging him and Zerubbabel in the work of rebuilding and providing visions related to the future of the priesthood and the Messiah.
Jozadak himself was the son of Seraiah, the chief priest who was executed by Nebuchadnezzar during the fall of Jerusalem ([[2 Kings 25:18-21]]; [[Jeremiah 52:24-27]]). This means Jozadak was taken into exile as a young man, or perhaps even born in exile, and thus never served as High Priest in Jerusalem. His significance lies in his role as the progenitor of the post-exilic high priestly line through his son Jeshua, ensuring the continuity of the Aaronic priesthood despite the devastation of the exile.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{H3087}}` (Yᵉhôwtsâdâq):** The full form of the name, emphasizing the divine name YHWH and the concept of righteousness. Understanding this longer form is crucial for grasping the theological depth of `{{H3136}}`.
* **צָדַק (tsadaq):** The Hebrew root meaning "to be righteous," "to be just," "to be vindicated." This root is foundational to understanding God's character and His covenant relationship with Israel. It speaks to divine faithfulness and the standard of moral rectitude.
* **YHWH (יהוה):** The personal name of God, often rendered "LORD" in English Bibles. Its inclusion in the name Yôwtsâdâq highlights God's active presence and character in the life and lineage of the individual.
* **`{{H3442}}` / `{{H3091}}` (Yēšûaʿ / Yᵉhôšûaʿ):** Jeshua/Joshua, the son of Jozadak. Their destinies are inextricably linked, with Jeshua fulfilling the role of High Priest that Jozadak, due to the exile, could not.
* **Priesthood:** The institution of the Aaronic priesthood, its continuity through the exile, and its vital role in mediating between God and Israel, particularly in atonement and worship.
* **Exile and Return:** The historical context in which Jozadak and his son lived, highlighting God's preservation of His people and institutions through periods of judgment and His faithfulness in bringing about restoration.
### Theological Significance
The name Yôwtsâdâq, meaning "YHWH is righteous," carries profound theological significance, particularly within the context of the Babylonian exile and the subsequent return.
1. **Divine Faithfulness Amidst Judgment:** The very existence of a priestly line, named "YHWH is righteous," spanning the period of exile, serves as a powerful testament to God's enduring faithfulness and righteousness. Despite Israel's sin leading to judgment and exile, God remained true to His covenant, preserving the lineage essential for future worship and atonement. The name itself would have been a constant reminder that God's character of justice and righteousness remained untarnished, even when His people faced severe discipline.
2. **Continuity of God's Plan:** Jozadak's lineage, culminating in his son Jeshua serving as High Priest, underscores God's commitment to His redemptive plan. The preservation of the high priestly office was crucial for the re-establishment of the sacrificial system and the spiritual life of the returning community. This continuity demonstrates God's sovereign oversight, ensuring that the necessary spiritual infrastructure was in place for His people.
3. **Hope and Restoration:** For the exiles, a name like Yôwtsâdâq would have been a beacon of hope. It declared that even in their darkest hour, God was righteous and would ultimately act in justice and mercy to restore His people. The return under Jeshua and Zerubbabel was a tangible manifestation of this righteousness, validating the truth embedded in Jozadak's name.
4. **Prefigurement of Christ:** The High Priesthood, particularly as seen in the post-exilic period, points forward to the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ. Christ is the one who is truly righteous and who makes His people righteous through His atoning work. The name "YHWH is righteous" foreshadows the One who perfectly embodies divine righteousness and accomplishes perfect reconciliation.
### Summary
`{{H3136}}` (Yôwtsâdâq), meaning "YHWH is righteous" or "YHWH makes righteous," is the name of the father of Jeshua (Joshua), the High Priest who served during the post-exilic rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. Although Jozadak himself did not serve as High Priest in Jerusalem, having been taken into exile, his significance lies in representing the crucial continuity of the high priestly line through the Babylonian captivity. The name itself is a powerful theological statement, affirming God's unchanging righteousness and faithfulness even in the midst of national judgment. It speaks to God's preservation of His covenant and His people, offering a message of hope and pointing towards His ultimate plan of restoration through a righteous High Priest.
TRV