Definition and Etymology:
Hodu is a term found in the Hebrew Bible, referring to the region known today as India. The word "Hodu" is derived from the Hebrew הֹדּוּ (Hōdū), which is believed to be a transliteration of the Persian word for India. This term is used in the context of the vast expanse of the Persian Empire during the biblical period.

Biblical References:
Hodu is mentioned in the Book of Esther, which provides a glimpse into the extent of the Persian Empire under King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I). The specific reference is found in Esther 1:1: "This is what happened in the days of Xerxes, who reigned over 127 provinces from India to Cush." . Here, "India" is translated from "Hodu," indicating the easternmost boundary of the empire.

Historical and Geographical Context:
During the time of the Achaemenid Empire, Hodu represented the far eastern frontier. The empire stretched from Hodu in the east to Cush (modern-day Sudan) in the west, encompassing a vast and diverse range of cultures and peoples. This expansive territory highlights the power and reach of the Persian rulers during the biblical era.

Cultural and Religious Significance:
The mention of Hodu in the Book of Esther underscores the global influence and interconnectedness of ancient civilizations. The Persian Empire's inclusion of Hodu signifies the integration of various cultures and the spread of ideas, trade, and governance across a wide geographical area. This context is crucial for understanding the setting of the Book of Esther, where the Jewish people lived under Persian rule and were subject to its laws and decrees.

Theological Implications:
The reference to Hodu in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over all nations and territories. The vastness of the Persian Empire, from Hodu to Cush, illustrates the fulfillment of God's promises to His people, even when they are dispersed among the nations. The account of Esther, set within this expansive empire, demonstrates God's providential care and deliverance of His people, regardless of their geographical location.

Conclusion:
The term Hodu, while only briefly mentioned in the Bible, provides significant insight into the historical and cultural backdrop of the Persian Empire. It serves as a testament to the far-reaching influence of ancient empires and the enduring presence of God's hand in the affairs of nations.1912. Hoddu -- India
... Word Origin of foreign origin Definition India NASB Word Usage India (2). India.
Of foreign origin; Hodu (ie Hindu-stan) -- India. 1911, 1912. Hoddu. 1913 ...
/hebrew/1912.htm - 5kHodu (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Hodu (2 Occurrences). Esther 1:1 And it cometh
to pass, in the days of Ahasuerus -- he 'is' Ahasuerus who ...
/h/hodu.htm - 7k

Reigning (57 Occurrences)
... Esther 1:1 And it cometh to pass, in the days of Ahasuerus -- he 'is' Ahasuerus
who is reigning from Hodu even unto Cush, seven and twenty and a hundred ...
/r/reigning.htm - 24k

Tongue (160 Occurrences)
... to all that Mordecai hath commanded, unto the Jews, and unto the lieutenants, and
the governors, and the heads of the provinces, that 'are' from Hodu even unto ...
/t/tongue.htm - 42k

Hodshi (1 Occurrence)

/h/hodshi.htm - 6k

Hodvah (1 Occurrence)

/h/hodvah.htm - 6k

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