יַדּוּעַ

יַדּוּעַ

Jaddua, the name of two Israelites

Definition

Yaddûwaʻ (Jaddua) is a proper name meaning 'known' or 'one who is known.' In the Bible, it refers to two distinct individuals, both appearing in the Book of Nehemiah. The first is a leader who sealed the covenant of faithfulness to God's law (Nehemiah 10:21). The second is a high priest, the son of Jonathan, listed in the priestly genealogy (Nehemiah 12:11, 22). The name's meaning, derived from the root for 'to know,' may signify being known by God or having a recognized, faithful standing within the community.

Biblical Usage

This name is used exclusively in the post-exilic Book of Nehemiah, appearing three times. It identifies individuals within two key contexts: the signatories of the national covenant renewal (Nehemiah 10:21) and the official priestly lineage (Nehemiah 12:11, 22). Its usage underscores the importance of recorded genealogy and leadership during the restoration of Jerusalem, connecting individuals to the community's religious and social reformation.

Etymology

The name יַדּוּעַ (Yaddûwaʻ) is a passive participle derived from the root יָדַע (yāḏaʻ, H3045), meaning 'to know.' It literally translates as 'known' or 'one who is known.' This formation is typical for Hebrew proper names, often expressing a characteristic or a divine relationship (e.g., being known by God).

Semantic Range

While a personal name, Jaddua connects to the important biblical theme of 'knowing,' which often implies intimate relationship and covenant faithfulness, not merely intellectual awareness. Its bearers were leaders during a critical period of covenant renewal and religious restoration under Nehemiah. Understanding the name's meaning ('known') can enrich the reading of these passages, hinting at the ideal of a leader who is known by and faithful to God, contributing to the re-establishment of a community based on God's law. In ancient Israelite culture, names often carried significant meaning, describing character, destiny, or divine blessing. A name like 'Jaddua' ('known') likely conveyed a sense of established reputation, recognition within the community, or perhaps a parent's hope that the child would be in right relationship with God. The meticulous recording of his name in genealogies (Nehemiah 12) highlights the post-exilic community's emphasis on priestly legitimacy and continuity. Yedaiah (יְדַעְיָה, H3048) — Another name from the same root (yāḏaʻ), meaning 'Yahweh knows' or 'known of Yahweh.' While Jaddua is a passive participle ('known'), Yedaiah explicitly incorporates the divine name.

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