The Hebrew word Laʻdâh, represented by H3935, identifies an Israelite individual. The name is derived from an unused root of uncertain meaning. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, placing it within a specific genealogical record in the Old Testament.
The single appearance of Laʻdâh H3935 is in the genealogical lists of the tribe of Judah found in 1 Chronicles 4:21. The verse identifies him as the father H1 of Mareshah H4762. This establishes his position within the lineage of Shelah H7956, who was a son H1121 of Judah H3063. This family line is also noted for its connection to "the families H4940 of the house H1004 of them that wrought fine linen H948."
Several related words from its context help clarify the significance of Laadah's lineage:
- H7956 Shêlâh (request; Shelah): He is identified as a son H1121 of Judah H3063 and the ancestor of the line that includes Laadah 1 Chronicles 4:21. The families descended from him were known as the Shelanites Numbers 26:20.
- H3063 Yᵉhûwdâh (celebrated; Jehudah (or Judah)): As the patriarch of the tribe, Judah is the foundational ancestor of this lineage. The tribe of Judah was prophesied to hold the sceptre and have a ruler come from it (Genesis 49:10, Micah 5:2).
- H4762 Marʼêshâh (summit; Mareshah): Laadah is named as the father of Mareshah. Mareshah is also the name of a place in Palestine, listed among the cities of Judah Joshua 15:44.
- H4940 mishpâchâh (a family): This word describes the clans or families associated with Laadah's line. The concept extends beyond immediate relatives to encompass the "kindreds of the people" who are called to give glory to the LORD Psalms 96:7.
- H5656 ʻăbôdâh (work of any kind; service): The family of Laadah is connected to the work H5656 of making fine linen. This term can refer to a specific craft, but also to service to God 1 Chronicles 28:20 or bondage Exodus 2:23.
The mention of H3935 within its genealogical context highlights several key themes:
- Preservation of Lineage: Laadah's inclusion is essential for documenting a specific branch within the tribe of Judah. These detailed records affirm the historical continuity of the Israelite tribes, tracing them back to their patriarchal heads like Shelah and Judah 1 Chronicles 4:21.
- Dignity of Labor: The family line is explicitly associated with a skilled craft: the work H5656 of producing fine linen H948. This connection between a specific lineage and a vocation illustrates that identity and heritage were tied not just to ancestry but also to the family's contribution to the community.
- Patriarchal Heritage: By being named as the father H1 of Mareshah H4762, Laadah serves as a link in the patriarchal chain. This structure was the primary means by which inheritance, identity, and family roles were passed down through generations in ancient Israel.
In summary, while Laʻdâh H3935 is mentioned only once, his inclusion is vital for the genealogical integrity of the tribe of Judah. His name serves to document the lineage descending from Shelah and to connect this specific family with the important craft of working fine linen H948. This single reference in 1 Chronicles 4:21 underscores the biblical value placed on preserving heritage, identity, and the specific roles that families H4940 played within the larger community of Israel.
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