Jedi'dah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the reign of King Josiah of Judah. Her name is found in 2 Kings 22:1, where she is identified as the mother of King Josiah. The name Jedi'dah means "beloved" or "darling" in Hebrew, which reflects a sense of endearment and affection.

Biblical Context

Jedi'dah is mentioned in the narrative concerning the reign of her son, King Josiah, one of the most notable kings of Judah. Josiah is renowned for his religious reforms and his efforts to restore the worship of Yahweh in Judah, as well as for his commitment to the Law of Moses. The biblical account in 2 Kings 22:1 states: "Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem thirty-one years. His mother’s name was Jedidah daughter of Adaiah; she was from Bozkath."

Family Background

Jedi'dah was the daughter of Adaiah and hailed from Bozkath, a town in the territory of Judah. The mention of her lineage and hometown provides insight into her background and the familial connections that were significant in the biblical narrative. Bozkath is identified in the tribal allotment of Judah, suggesting that Jedi'dah was of Judahite descent, which would have been important in the context of the Davidic line and the legitimacy of Josiah's reign.

Role and Influence

While the Bible does not provide extensive details about Jedi'dah's life or her role as queen mother, her mention in the genealogy of Josiah highlights her importance in the royal lineage. As the mother of a king who was instrumental in leading a national religious revival, Jedi'dah's influence, though not explicitly detailed, can be inferred as significant in shaping the early life and character of Josiah. The role of a mother in the ancient Near Eastern context often included responsibilities for the upbringing and education of her children, which may have contributed to Josiah's later devotion to God and his commitment to reform.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, Jedi'dah's mention in the biblical text underscores the importance of family and lineage in the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. Her connection to Josiah, a king who sought to align the nation with the covenantal laws, reflects the ongoing narrative of God's faithfulness to His people through the Davidic line. Jedi'dah's role, though briefly mentioned, is part of the larger tapestry of God's redemptive history as recorded in the Scriptures.

In summary, Jedi'dah, as the mother of King Josiah, holds a place in the biblical narrative that highlights the significance of maternal influence and the continuation of the Davidic line in the history of Judah. Her legacy is intertwined with the religious and political reforms of her son, which had lasting impacts on the spiritual direction of the nation.Jedi'dah (1 Occurrence)

2 Kings 22:1
Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign; and he reigned thirty and one years in Jerusalem; and his mother's name was Jedidah the daughter of Adaiah of Bozkath.
(See RSV)

Jedi'dah (1 Occurrence)
Jedi'dah. Jedidah, Jedi'dah. Jedidiah . Multi-Version Concordance
Jedi'dah (1 Occurrence). 2 Kings 22:1 Josiah was eight years old ...
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Jedidah (1 Occurrence)

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Jedidiah (1 Occurrence)

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