Etymology and Meaning:
The name Ho'devah is believed to be of Hebrew origin, though its exact meaning is not definitively established. It is often associated with the concept of "praise" or "confession," aligning with the Hebrew root "yadah," which means to praise or give thanks.

Biblical References:
Ho'devah is mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Judah. In 1 Chronicles 4:19, the Berean Standard Bible states: "The sons of Hodiah’s wife, the sister of Naham, were the father of Keilah the Garmite and Eshtemoa the Maacathite." Here, Ho'devah is referred to as Hodiah, which is considered a variant of the same name. This passage situates Ho'devah within the broader context of the descendants of Judah, highlighting the interconnectedness of the tribes and families within Israel.

Historical and Cultural Context:
The genealogies in 1 Chronicles serve to establish the lineage and heritage of the tribes of Israel, particularly focusing on the tribe of Judah, from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ descended. The mention of Ho'devah, though brief, contributes to the rich tapestry of Israel's history and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

Theological Significance:
From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Ho'devah in the genealogical records underscores the importance of every individual and family in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. Each name, though sometimes obscure, plays a role in the divine narrative that leads to the coming of the Messiah. The genealogies remind believers of God's faithfulness and the continuity of His covenant with Israel.

Related Themes and Concepts:
· Genealogy and Heritage: The genealogical records in the Bible emphasize the importance of lineage and heritage in the Jewish tradition, serving as a testament to God's ongoing relationship with His chosen people.
· Praise and Worship: The potential meaning of Ho'devah as "praise" or "confession" aligns with the biblical theme of worship, which is central to the life of faith. The act of praising God is a recurring motif throughout Scripture, reflecting the believer's response to God's goodness and sovereignty.
· Covenant and Promise: The genealogies, including the mention of Ho'devah, are a reminder of God's covenantal promises to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and their descendants. They highlight the faithfulness of God in preserving His people and fulfilling His promises through successive generations.

Conclusion:
While Ho'devah is a relatively minor figure in the biblical narrative, the mention of this name in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles contributes to the broader understanding of Israel's history and God's redemptive work. Through the lens of genealogy, believers are reminded of the intricate and purposeful unfolding of God's plan throughout history.Ho'devah (1 Occurrence)

Nehemiah 7:43
The Levites: the children of Jeshua, of Kadmiel, of the children of Hodevah, seventy-four.
(See RSV)

Ho'devah (1 Occurrence)
Ho'devah. Hodevah, Ho'devah. Hodiah . Multi-Version Concordance Ho'devah
(1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 7:43 The Levites: the children ...
/h/ho'devah.htm - 6k

Hodiah (6 Occurrences)

/h/hodiah.htm - 9k

Hodevah (1 Occurrence)

/h/hodevah.htm - 7k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus