בְּדַד (be.dad)
be.dad
Bedad
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Bedad appears only twice in Scripture, both times in the genealogical records of Genesis 36 and 1 Chronicles 1. It identifies a man who was the father of Hadad, an Edomite ruler listed among the chiefs of Esau’s descendants. The text provides no narrative details about his life or character; he is mentioned solely to establish lineage and tribal structure.
Linguistically, the name is derived from the Hebrew root meaning "solitary" or "alone." While this etymology might suggest themes of isolation, in this context it functions simply as a personal identifier within a family tree. The sources note that the name itself carries this meaning, but the biblical text does not elaborate on whether the individual’s life reflected solitude.
Its rarity makes Bedad a footnote in biblical history rather than a focal point of theological reflection. It serves as a reminder of the detailed genealogies that connect the patriarchs to later nations, preserving the identity of lesser-known figures who contributed to the broader narrative of Israel’s neighbors.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Bible includes names like Bedad in its genealogies, preserving the identity of individuals who might otherwise be forgotten. This brief mention reminds us that God’s historical record values every person, not just those with prominent roles or dramatic stories. Each name connects a lineage, showing how families and nations were formed through generations.
While we do not know much about Bedad personally, his inclusion highlights the careful preservation of Israel’s neighbors and relatives. These records help us understand the broader context of biblical history, linking the patriarchs to the peoples who lived alongside them. It is a quiet assurance that no one is erased from God’s account.
When you encounter such names, consider the faithfulness of God in maintaining these connections. They point to a world where every life has a place in the larger story. This attention to detail encourages trust in the reliability of Scripture and the care God takes with His people’s history.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Bedad2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- בְּדַ֗ד2×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 36:35
Husham died, and Hadad, the son of Bedad, who struck Midian in the field of Moab, reigned in his place. The name of his city was Avith.
This verse identifies Bedad as the father of Hadad, an Edomite ruler, establishing his place in the lineage of Esau's descendants.
-
I Chronicles 1:46
Husham died, and Hadad the son of Bedad, who struck Midian in the field of Moab, reigned in his place; and the name of his city was Avith.
The parallel account here confirms the same genealogical link, reinforcing the historical record of Edom's royal line.