from יָעַד; appointed; Jedi, an Israelite; Iddo (from the margin) See יִדּוֹ.
Transliteration:Yeʻdîy
Pronunciation:yed-ee'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H3260}}` (יֶעְדִּי, Yeʻdîy) functions primarily as a proper noun, a personal name. Its etymology traces directly to the verbal root `{{H3259}}` (יָעַד, yaʻad), which carries the core meaning of "to appoint," "to designate," "to fix a time or place," or "to meet by appointment." Therefore, the name Yeʻdîy inherently conveys the sense of "appointed" or "designated." This suggests a person who is set apart or chosen for a specific purpose or role. The base definition also notes an alternative rendering, "Iddo," and directs the reader to `{{H3038}}` (יִדּוֹ, Yiddô), indicating a close linguistic or even orthographic relationship between these names, both potentially stemming from the same or a very similar root concept of appointment or designation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H3260}}` (Yeʻdîy) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[1 Chronicles 27:21]]. In this passage, Yeʻdîy is identified as "Jedi the son of Joah," and he is listed among the tribal chiefs serving King David. He is specifically designated as the leader over the half-tribe of Manasseh in Gilead. This context places Yeʻdîy in a position of significant leadership and responsibility within the administrative structure of David's kingdom. His inclusion in this roster of prominent figures, each responsible for a specific tribal division, underscores his importance and the trust placed in him by the king. The very nature of his role as a "chief" (נָשִׂיא, nāśîʼ), a leader appointed over a segment of the people, resonates deeply with the etymological meaning of his name: one who is "appointed" or "designated" for authority. While the name `{{H3038}}` (Yiddô) appears more frequently and refers to several other individuals (e.g., a prophet, a priest, a father in a genealogical list), the specific occurrence of `{{H3260}}` is singular and distinct, referring to this particular tribal leader.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to `{{H3260}}` is its root verb, `{{H3259}}` (יָעַד, yaʻad), which signifies "to appoint, to meet, to fix." This root is foundational to understanding the semantic field of `{{H3260}}`. Other significant derivatives from this root include `{{H4150}}` (מוֹעֵד, môʻēd), a highly significant term meaning "appointed time," "appointed place," "assembly," or "feast." This connection highlights a broader concept of divine or human designation, not just of individuals but also of times and locations for specific purposes, especially for worship and covenantal meetings with God. The explicit mention of `{{H3038}}` (יִדּוֹ, Yiddô) in the base definition of `{{H3260}}` further links these names, suggesting a common linguistic heritage or even a shared understanding of names that denote divine or human selection. In ancient Israelite culture, names were often prophetic or descriptive, reflecting character, destiny, or the circumstances of birth. Thus, a name like Yeʻdîy would subtly convey a sense of divine or authoritative appointment.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H3260}}` refers to a relatively minor figure in biblical narrative, the theological significance of his name, "appointed," is profound. It subtly yet powerfully points to the overarching biblical theme of divine sovereignty and God's purposeful design in human affairs. The concept of "appointment" by God is central to many biblical narratives, from the calling of Abraham as the father of a nation to the designation of Moses as a deliverer, David as king, and the prophets as God's spokespersons. Even for a tribal chief like Jedi, his name serves as a reminder that leadership and authority, particularly within the covenant community of Israel, were often perceived as divinely ordained. This echoes the broader understanding that God raises up and sets apart individuals for specific roles within His redemptive plan, whether for leadership, prophecy, or service. The name Yeʻdîy, therefore, stands as a quiet testimony to the belief that God is actively involved in the lives of His people, choosing and equipping individuals for their unique contributions to His kingdom.
### Summary
`{{H3260}}` (יֶעְדִּי, Yeʻdîy) is a Hebrew proper noun meaning "appointed" or "designated," derived from the root `{{H3259}}` (יָעַד). It appears singularly in [[1 Chronicles 27:21]], identifying Jedi, the son of Joah, a chief over the half-tribe of Manasseh in Gilead during King David's reign. The name itself carries significant theological weight, subtly affirming the biblical principle of divine appointment and God's sovereign hand in designating individuals for specific purposes and roles within His plan. It connects to broader concepts of divine selection and the establishment of order, whether for people, times, or places, as seen in related terms like `{{H4150}}` (môʻēd).