### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Mêydâd**, represented by `{{H4312}}`, means **affectionate** and refers to a specific Israelite. It appears only **2 times** in **2 verses**, yet its context provides a significant illustration of divine action. The name is derived from a root word that carries the sense of loving.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Mêydâd** `{{H4312}}` is one of two **men** `{{H582}}` who **remained** `{{H7604}}` in the camp when the elders were gathered at the tabernacle. The account states that both he and Eldad `{{H419}}` were among those who were **written** `{{H3789}}`, and the **spirit** `{{H7307}}` **rested** `{{H5117}}` upon them, causing them to **prophesy** `{{H5012}}` in the camp [[Numbers 11:26]]. This event was noteworthy enough that a young man ran to tell Moses that Eldad and **Mêydâd** `{{H4312}}` were prophesying in the camp [[Numbers 11:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide crucial context for the story of Medad:
* `{{H419}}` **ʼEldâd** (God has loved): This is the name of the man who prophesied alongside Medad. He is always mentioned with **Mêydâd**, and their shared experience is the basis of the narrative [[Numbers 11:26]].
* `{{H5012}}` **nâbâʼ** (to prophesy): This is the key action performed by Medad. It means to speak or sing by inspiration, which is what occurred when the spirit rested upon him [[Numbers 11:27]].
* `{{H5117}}` **nûwach** (to rest, settle down): This word describes the action of God's spirit coming upon Medad and Eldad. The spirit **rested** on them, empowering them for a divine purpose [[Numbers 11:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of this brief account is significant. It highlights several key principles about God's work.
* **Sovereignty of the Spirit:** The story of **Mêydâd** demonstrates that the Spirit of God is not confined by human expectations or physical locations. The spirit **rested** `{{H5117}}` on him in the camp, away from the tabernacle, showing God's ability to act where He chooses [[Numbers 11:26]].
* **The Divine Call to Prophesy:** The act of prophesying `{{H5012}}` was initiated by God's spirit, not by proximity to a religious structure or leader. **Mêydâd**'s experience illustrates that a divine call is a direct result of God's anointing.
* **Inclusion in God's Plan:** The detail that **Mêydâd** was among those who were **written** `{{H3789}}` is crucial. It suggests his participation was part of a divine record, underscoring that those chosen by God are part of His plan, regardless of their location [[Numbers 11:26]].
### Summary
In summary, **Mêydâd** `{{H4312}}` is more than just a name in a list. His brief appearance in scripture serves as a powerful testament to the sovereign work of God's spirit. The account highlights that a divine calling is not limited by geography and that those who are **written** `{{H3789}}` in God's plan will be empowered to fulfill it. The story of **Mêydâd** shows that God's spirit can **rest** `{{H5117}}` upon and activate His chosen people wherever they may be.
TRV