### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Bᵉdad**, represented by `{{H911}}`, is derived from a root meaning **separation**. It is used in the Bible as the proper name of an Edomite. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within a genealogical context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H911}}` appears only in the royal genealogies of Edom. The two verses where the name is found are identical accounts in Genesis and 1 Chronicles. In both passages, **Bedad** is identified as the father of Hadad, an Edomite king who succeeded Husham. Hadad, son of **Bedad**, is specifically noted for a military victory where he "smote Midian in the field of Moab" ([[Genesis 36:35]], [[1 Chronicles 1:46]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which **Bedad** is mentioned:
* `{{H1908}}` **Hădad**: This is the name of **Bedad's** son, who was a king of Edom [[Genesis 36:35]]. The name appears in several records of Edomite rulers and adversaries of Israel [[1 Kings 11:14]].
* `{{H2367}}` **Chûwshâm**: This is the name of the Idumaean king whose death preceded Hadad's rise to power. The scripture states that after Husham died, "Hadad the son of Bedad... reigned in his stead" [[1 Chronicles 1:46]].
* `{{H4427}}` **mâlak**: This verb, meaning to **reign** or be king, is central to the passage. It describes the transfer of power to Bedad's son, establishing his place in the line of Edomite rulers [[Genesis 36:35]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H911}}` is found not in the man himself, but in his function within the biblical record.
* **Patrilineal Identity:** The sole purpose of mentioning **Bedad** is to identify his son, Hadad. This highlights the importance of paternal lineage in establishing identity, authority, and historical succession in the Old Testament [[Genesis 36:35]].
* **Historical Record:** The inclusion of **Bedad** in the meticulous king lists of Edom demonstrates the Bible’s commitment to preserving the historical record of nations, even those outside of Israel. It provides a specific anchor for the reign of his son Hadad, who is also noted for his actions against Midian [[1 Chronicles 1:46]].
* **Name and Separation:** The name **Bᵉdad** is defined as "separation" `{{H911}}`. This meaning resonates with the history of the Edomites as a people descended from Esau, existing in a state of separation from his brother Jacob and the nation of Israel.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H911}}` **Bᵉdad** is a name that appears exclusively to establish the identity of an Edomite king. While a minor figure, his inclusion in scripture serves to reinforce the importance of genealogy and historical accuracy in the biblical text. The name itself, meaning "separation," subtly reflects the relationship between the people of Edom and their Israelite neighbors.
TRV