Origin and Meaning of Jedediah

Meaning & Origin

Beloved of the Lord

Origin: Hebrew - Derived from the Hebrew name Yedidyah, which combines 'yad' (hand) and 'dah' (to love), meaning 'beloved of God'.

Interesting Facts

  • Jedediah is a biblical name mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Samuel 12:25, where it is given to Solomon, the son of David and Bathsheba.
  • The name is predominantly used in Judeo-Christian cultures, often among those who wish to reflect a strong religious or spiritual connection.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Jedediah Smith, a prominent American frontiersman and explorer in the early 19th century.
  • While not extremely common, Jedediah has seen a slight resurgence in popularity, especially among parents looking for unique biblical names. It ranked within the top 1000 names for boys in the United States in recent years.
  • Variations of the name include Jedd, Jed, and Jedidiah, which also reflect the same biblical heritage.