Etymology and Meaning: The name Jediael (Hebrew: יְדִיעֲאֵל) is understood to mean "God Knows" or "Known by God." This name reflects a recognition of divine omniscience and personal relationship with God, a theme prevalent throughout the biblical narrative.

Biblical References: Jediael is mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribes of Israel, specifically within the tribe of Benjamin. The primary reference to Jediael is found in 1 Chronicles 7:6, 10-11, where he is listed as one of the sons of Benjamin. The passage reads: "The sons of Benjamin: Bela, Becher, and Jediael—three in all... The son of Jediael: Bilhan. The sons of Bilhan: Jeush, Benjamin, Ehud, Chenaanah, Zethan, Tarshish, and Ahishahar. All these sons of Jediael were heads of their families, mighty warriors; there were 17,200 ready for battle."

Tribal Significance: As a descendant of Benjamin, Jediael is part of a tribe known for its valor and military prowess. The Benjaminites were often noted for their skills in battle, and Jediael's lineage is no exception. The mention of his descendants as "mighty warriors" underscores the martial reputation of the tribe and highlights the importance of Jediael's family in the military organization of Israel.

Role and Legacy: Jediael's role, as indicated by the genealogical record, is primarily as a progenitor of a significant family within the tribe of Benjamin. His descendants, numbering 17,200, were recognized as leaders and warriors, suggesting that Jediael's legacy was one of strength and leadership. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of God raising leaders from among His people to fulfill His purposes.

Theological Implications: The inclusion of Jediael in the genealogical records serves as a reminder of God's intimate knowledge of His people. The name itself, "God Knows," emphasizes the personal relationship between God and the individuals within the covenant community. It reflects the biblical truth that God is aware of and involved in the lives of His people, guiding their destinies according to His divine plan.

Historical Context: The genealogies in 1 Chronicles were likely compiled during the post-exilic period, serving to reaffirm the identity and heritage of the Israelite tribes after the Babylonian exile. By documenting the lineage of figures like Jediael, the chronicler sought to preserve the continuity of Israel's tribal structure and highlight the enduring faithfulness of God to His covenant promises.

Cultural and Religious Significance: In the context of ancient Israel, genealogies were not merely records of ancestry but were also vital for establishing tribal identity, inheritance rights, and social status. Jediael's mention in the genealogical record underscores the importance of family lineage in maintaining the cultural and religious heritage of the Israelite community.

Conclusion: The figure of Jediael, though not extensively detailed in the biblical narrative, represents the broader themes of divine knowledge, leadership, and the continuity of God's covenant people. His inclusion in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the tribe of Benjamin and the faithfulness of God to His chosen people.Jedi'a-el (5 Occurrences)

1 Chronicles 7:6
The sons of Benjamin: Bela, and Becher, and Jediael, three.
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1 Chronicles 7:10
And the sons of Jediael: Bilhan; and the sons of Bilhan: Jeush, and Benjamin, and Ehud, and Chenaanah, and Zethan, and Tarshish, and Ahishahar.
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 11:45
Jediael the son of Shimri, and Joha his brother, the Tizite;
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1 Chronicles 12:20
As he went to Ziklag, there fell to him of Manasseh, Adnah, and Jozabad, and Jediael, and Michael, and Jozabad, and Elihu, and Zillethai, captains of thousands that were of Manasseh.
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 26:2
And Meshelemiah had sons: Zechariah the first-born, Jediael the second, Zebadiah the third, Jathniel the fourth;
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Jedi'a-el (5 Occurrences)
Jedi'a-el. Jediael, Jedi'a-el. Jedidah . Multi-Version Concordance
Jedi'a-el (5 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 7:6 The sons of Benjamin ...
/j/jedi'a-el.htm - 7k

Jediael (6 Occurrences)

/j/jediael.htm - 9k

Jedidah (1 Occurrence)

/j/jedidah.htm - 7k

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