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.
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).
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.
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.
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