יָדִיד (ye.did)
ye.did
beloved; love
H:AQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:A
Word Overview
The Hebrew adjective yadid describes someone who is deeply loved or cherished, carrying the sense of being a "beloved" friend or companion. Unlike terms that might denote romantic passion alone, this word emphasizes a close, affectionate bond rooted in mutual care. It appears primarily in poetic sections of the Old Testament, adding emotional weight to relationships between friends or between God and His people.
Its usage is limited but significant, occurring only four times in Scripture. In Isaiah 5:1, it identifies the "beloved" vineyard, personifying Israel as someone precious to God. Similarly, in Psalm 80:1, it addresses Ephraim as "yadid," highlighting God’s tender regard for His chosen tribe. The word conveys intimacy and value, suggesting that the beloved is held dear in the heart of the lover.
Translators often render yadid as "beloved" or "dear friend," capturing its nuance of personal affection rather than abstract love. This distinction helps readers see that biblical love language often centers on relational closeness. The term invites reflection on how God values His people, not as distant subjects, but as cherished companions in covenant relationship.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word yadid paints a picture of deep, cherished affection. It describes someone who is not just known, but held dear in the heart of another. When Scripture uses this term, it moves beyond formal duty into the realm of intimate relationship. God does not view His people as distant subjects or mere followers, but as beloved companions who are precious to Him.
This truth offers profound comfort. In Isaiah 5:1, the vineyard is called yadid, showing how much Israel meant to its Creator. Similarly, Psalm 127:2 reminds us that God gives rest to His loved ones, relieving the burden of endless striving. You are not alone in your struggles; you are known and valued by a Father who delights in you.
Reflecting on this word helps us understand the depth of our place in God’s family. It is an invitation to rest in that security, knowing that our worth comes from being His beloved, not from our own performance. This assurance allows us to face life with peace, trusting in His constant care and presence.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to/ beloved [one]/ my3×
- to/ beloved [one]/ his1×
- [the] beloved [one] of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- לִֽ/ידִידִ֞/י1×
- לִֽ/ידִידִ֖/י1×
- לִֽ/ידִידִ֔/י1×
- לִֽ/ידִיד֣/וֹ1×
- יְדִ֣יד1×
Key Verses
-
Isaiah 5:1
Let me sing for my well beloved a song of my beloved about his vineyard. My beloved had a vineyard on a very fruitful hill.
This verse personifies Israel as the 'beloved' vineyard, highlighting God's personal investment and tender regard for His people.
-
Psalms 127:2
It is vain for you to rise up early, to stay up late, eating the bread of toil, for he gives sleep to his loved ones.
Here the word shifts to describe those who receive God's gift of rest, contrasting anxious toil with trusting reliance on Him.
-
Deuteronomy 33:12
About Benjamin he said, “The beloved of Yahweh will dwell in safety by him. He covers him all day long. He dwells between his shoulders.”
Benjamin is called 'the beloved of Yahweh,' emphasizing a special protective covering and safety granted by God.