Jebediah Boy

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: JEB-uh-dye-uh //ˌdʒɛb.əˈdaɪ.ə//

Origin: Hebrew

Meaning: Hebrew: beloved friend; English: variant of Jedediah

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Jebediah has its roots in the Hebrew language, derived from the name יְהוֹבֵדְיָה (Yehovedyah), which translates to "beloved of the Lord." This name is a compound of two elements: "yeho," a form of the divine name Yahweh, and "diah," meaning "to love" or "beloved." The name entered the English language through the Greek transliteration of Hebrew names and subsequently through Latin, where it was adapted into forms such as Jebediah or Jebediah, before being incorporated into Middle English. Historically, Jebediah is associated with a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament.

Specifically, Jebediah is recognized as the name given to Solomon's son, originally named Jedidiah, in the second book of Samuel, around the 10th century BCE. The name appears in various translations of the Bible, including the King James Version published in 1611, which helped to solidify its presence in English-speaking cultures.

The biblical context lends the name a significant religious and cultural weight, often associated with themes of divine favor and love. Culturally, Jebediah carries connotations of loyalty and devotion, reflecting its etymological roots.

The name has been embraced in various literary and artistic works, often symbolizing steadfastness and faith. While diminutive forms such as Jeb or Jed may be used informally, the full name Jebediah retains a formal and historical resonance, evoking the rich tapestry of biblical narratives and the enduring legacy of names that reflect a connection to the divine.

Fictional characters named Jebediah

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