יִדּוֹ

Jiddo, an Israelite

Definition

Yiddôw (Jiddo) is a proper name referring to an Israelite mentioned in two genealogical lists in the Old Testament. In 1 Chronicles 27:21, he is identified as the father of Abiezer, who was a leader of the tribe of Manasseh during King David's reign. In Ezra 10:43, a man named Jiddo is listed among those who had married foreign women and pledged to send them away during the post-exilic reforms. The name itself means 'praised' or 'celebrated,' deriving from the Hebrew root for praise.

Biblical Usage

This name appears exclusively in two Old Testament genealogical or list contexts. It is used in a military and administrative roster from David's kingdom (1 Chronicles 27:21) and in a list of those involved in a covenant of repentance regarding intermarriage (Ezra 10:43). There is no narrative or dialogue usage; it functions solely as an identifying personal name within historical records.

Etymology

The name Yiddôw (יִדּוֹ) is derived from the Hebrew root יָדָה (yādâ, H3034), which means 'to praise,' 'to give thanks,' or 'to confess.' It is a masculine proper noun formed from this root, sharing a meaning with names like Judah (Yehudah). The name essentially signifies 'praised one' or 'he who is praised.'

Semantic Range

As a personal name meaning 'praised,' Yiddôw reflects a common Hebrew naming convention where children were given names with positive meanings or that invoked God's character (e.g., 'God is gracious'). The appearance of the name in both pre-exilic (1 Chronicles) and post-exilic (Ezra) lists shows its continuity, though the individuals are likely different men from different eras. Its use underscores the importance of lineage and identity within the covenant community of Israel.

Yehudah (H3063) — A major tribe and name also derived from the root for praise, but with a more prominent biblical role. Todah (H8426) — A noun meaning 'thanksgiving' or 'praise,' from the same root.

Word Details

Scripture References