Yehozavad is a Hebrew name appearing in the Old Testament, representing a variant form of Jehozabad. The name is derived from the Hebrew roots yeho, a theophoric element referring to the God Yahweh, and zavaḏ, meaning "to give." Combined, the name is traditionally understood to mean "Yahweh has given." This type of theophoric name was common in ancient Hebrew culture, reflecting gratitude or divine provision.
Biblical Context
In the Old Testament, the name yehozavad (or its variant jehozabad) is borne by several minor characters. One notable bearer is an assassin of King Joash, as recorded in 2 Kings 12:21 and 2 Chronicles 24:26. Other individuals include a priestly figure and an official in the kingdom of Judah. Despite its infrequency, the name underscores the pervasive influence of Yahweh worship in Hebrew naming conventions.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The name Yehozavad belongs to a class of Hebrew names that incorporate the divine element Yeho- or Yo-, shortened forms of the Tetragrammaton YHWH (often pronounced as Yahweh). This construction highlights the deep religious significance embedded in personal names of the period, affirming a parent's faith or recalling a divine act. While Yehozavad is not among the most common biblical names, its components are shared with many scriptural names such as Jehoshaphat and Jozachar, illustrating its place within onomastic traditions of ancient Israel.
- Meaning: "Yahweh has given"
- Origin: Hebrew
- Type: First name
- Usage: Hebrew Bible
- Related forms: Jehozabad, Yozavad, Jozabad