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.
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.
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.
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).
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