Gedaliah(3)
Gedaliah in the Bible — priest who had married a foreign wife (EZR 10:18). Gedaliah belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 2 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “God is my greatness”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Levi
- Scripture References
- 2 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 1 connection
Biography
Gedaliah was a male priest from the tribe of Levi, noted specifically for having married a foreign wife. This detail highlights a unique aspect of his life as recorded in Scripture. Beyond this, no additional notes are provided about his character or actions.
Names & Titles
The name Gedaliah means 'great is YHWH,' reflecting a theophoric element that honors the greatness of God. This proper name is not indicated as being given directly by God, but it carries a meaningful declaration of divine greatness.
Family
Scripture explicitly identifies Gedaliah as a descendant of Aaron, linking him to the priestly lineage. No other family relationships are recorded beyond this connection and his marriage to a foreign wife.
Significance
Gedaliah's significance in the biblical narrative lies in his identity as a Levite priest who married outside the Israelite community, which was a noteworthy detail in the post-exilic context. His Aaronic descent situates him within the priestly tradition, underscoring the continuity of God's ordained priesthood despite challenges. This detail serves to remind readers of the complexities faced by God's people in maintaining covenant faithfulness.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- גְּדַלְיָה
- Transliteration
- gədaləyah
- Meaning
- great is y-h-v-h
- Greek
- Γαδαλια
- Reference
- EZR 10:18
- Strong's
- H1436
Family & Relationships (1)
descendant
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Gedaliah in the Bible?
Gedaliah was a male priest from the tribe of Levi, noted specifically for having married a foreign wife. This detail highlights a unique aspect of his life as recorded in Scripture. Beyond this, no additional notes are provided about his character or actions.
What does the name Gedaliah mean?
The name Gedaliah means “God is my greatness” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.