### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Qêdâr**, represented by `{{H6938}}`, identifies a son of Ishmael and his descendants. Its definition is "dusky (of the skin or the tent); Kedar, a son of Ishmael; also (collectively) Bedouin (as his descendants or representatives); Kedar." Appearing **12 times** across **11 unique verses**, the term is associated with a nomadic people known for their wealth in flocks and their distinct, dark-colored tents.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6938}}` is used to establish a specific lineage and describe a people group. Genealogically, Kedar is named as a son of **Yishmâʻêʼl** (Ishmael) `{{H3458}}` ([[Genesis 25:13]]; [[1 Chronicles 1:29]]). The people of Kedar are depicted as nomadic, dwelling in **tents** `{{H168}}` [[Psalms 120:5]] and inhabiting villages in the **wilderness** `{{H4057}}` [[Isaiah 42:11]]. They are known for their commerce, with the **princes** `{{H5387}}` of Kedar trading in **lambs** `{{H3733}}`, **rams** `{{H352}}`, and **goats** `{{H6260}}` [[Ezekiel 27:21]]. Kedar is also a subject of prophecy, with Jeremiah declaring God's judgment to **spoil** `{{H7703}}` them [[Jeremiah 49:28]] and Isaiah foretelling that the **glory** `{{H3519}}` of Kedar shall **fail** `{{H3615}}` [[Isaiah 21:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the identity and context of Kedar:
* `{{H3458}}` **Yishmâʻêʼl** (Ishmael): Defined as "God will hear," this is the name of Abraham's oldest son and the father of Kedar. The lineage is explicitly stated in the biblical genealogies [[Genesis 25:13]].
* `{{H168}}` **ʼôhel** (tent): This word for a dwelling place is directly linked to Kedar's nomadic lifestyle. The phrase "tents of Kedar" is used to evoke their presence and way of life ([[Song of Solomon 1:5]]; [[Psalms 120:5]]).
* `{{H5032}}` **Nᵉbâyôwth** (Nebaioth): This is the name of Kedar's brother, the **firstborn** `{{H1060}}` of Ishmael. They are often mentioned together, particularly in a prophecy where their **rams** `{{H352}}` will **minister** `{{H8334}}` and be accepted on God's **altar** `{{H4196}}` [[Isaiah 60:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6938}}` is demonstrated through its role in prophecy and its symbolic usage.
* **Symbol of Alienation:** Dwelling among the people of Kedar can represent being in a hostile or foreign environment. The psalmist expresses his woe at having to **dwell** `{{H7931}}` in the **tents** `{{H168}}` of Kedar [[Psalms 120:5]], a place far from the security of God's people.
* **Subject to Divine Judgment:** As a powerful and wealthy people, Kedar serves as an example of earthly glory that is subject to God's sovereign judgment. The Lord declares that their **glory** `{{H3519}}` will **fail** `{{H3615}}` and their **mighty men** `{{H1368}}` will be **diminished** `{{H4591}}` [[Isaiah 21:16-17]], demonstrating that no nation is outside His authority.
* **Inclusion in Future Restoration:** Despite their status as outsiders, the people of Kedar are included in God's ultimate redemptive plan. Isaiah prophesies a time when the **flocks** `{{H6629}}` of Kedar will be **gathered** `{{H6908}}` as an acceptable offering and the people will **sing** `{{H7442}}` and **shout** `{{H6681}}` praises to God from their habitations ([[Isaiah 60:7]]; [[Isaiah 42:11]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6938}}` is more than just a genealogical marker. It represents the Bedouin descendants of Ishmael, known for their nomadic life, their **tents** `{{H168}}`, and their wealth in **flocks** `{{H6629}}`. While sometimes symbolizing a place of alienation or serving as a subject of divine judgment [[Jeremiah 49:28]], Kedar is ultimately depicted as a people who will be included in God's future glory, with their offerings being accepted and their voices joining in praise [[Isaiah 60:7]]. The story of Kedar illustrates the breadth of God's sovereignty, extending to judgment and redemption for all peoples.
TRV