Who was Hodaiah?

Hodaiah is a lesser-known name that appears in various contexts in the Old Testament, but notably in 1 Chronicles 3:24 as a descendant in the royal Davidic line. The name Hodaiah (Hebrew: הוֹדַיָּה, Hōdayāh) means “Jehovah is my majesty” or “The Lord is praise”, expressing devotion and acknowledgment of God‘s sovereignty and glory.

In 1 Chronicles 3:24, Hodaiah is listed among the descendants of Zerubbabel, who was a significant post-exilic leader instrumental in the rebuilding of the temple and the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon. This genealogical listing places Hodaiah in the royal Davidic lineage, underscoring his ancestral connection to King David and ultimately to the promised Messiah.

Biblical References

• 1 Chronicles 3:24 – “The sons of Elioenai: Hodaviah, Eliashib, Pelaiah, Akkub, Johanan, Delaiah and Anani. Seven in all.” (The name appears in some translations as Hodaviah, a variant spelling of Hodaiah.)

• 1 Chronicles 9:7 – A Hodaiah is listed among the Benjamite returnees.

• Nehemiah 8:7; 9:5; 10:10 – Individuals named Hodaiah also appear among the Levites and leaders in Nehemiah’s time, though they may or may not be the same person as the one in 1 Chronicles 3.

The Role of Hodaiah in the Biblical Narrative

Genealogical Significance

In the context of 1 Chronicles 3, the genealogical record serves to affirm the continuity of the Davidic line through the exile and beyond. Hodaiah, as one of the sons of Elioenai, is part of this preserved lineage. The Chronicler’s emphasis on genealogy in this chapter was not mere historical record-keeping but a theological declaration that God remained faithful to His covenant with David (2 Samuel 7:12-16).

Though Hodaiah does not have an active role or recorded deeds in Scripture, his inclusion is not without importance. His name is embedded in the line that would eventually culminate in the birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of David (Matthew 1:12-16). Thus, Hodaiah’s presence in the genealogy of Judah stands as a quiet witness to the unfolding plan of redemption.

Post-Exilic Identity

The listing of descendants in 1 Chronicles 3 reinforces the identity and hope of the returned exiles. It reminded the people that God had not forgotten His promises, and that the royal line—though humbled—was not extinguished. In the providence of God, even those who appear insignificant, like Hodaiah, are part of His redemptive story.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

For today’s believers, the story of Hodaiah—though minimal in biblical detail—reminds us of several key truths:

1. God remembers the faithful – Even when names are obscure or forgotten by men, they are recorded and remembered by God.

2. Faithfulness in obscurity matters – Hodaiah’s name, meaning “The Lord is my praise,” reflects the attitude believers are called to adopt, even when they are not in the spotlight.

3. We are part of a greater story – Like Hodaiah, every believer is part of God‘s plan, contributing to the greater narrative of redemption, even in quiet or unseen ways.

How Hodaiah’s Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Hodaiah’s genealogical connection to Zerubbabel and, by extension, to King David, is part of the divine thread that leads to Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of God’s covenant promise. Jesus, the Son of David, is the true King whose kingdom will never end (Luke 1:32-33).

While Hodaiah did not accomplish great acts like David or Solomon, his role in the lineage of Christ highlights a critical truth of the gospel: God uses ordinary people to fulfill extraordinary promises. The gospel is not merely about heroes but about grace—God working through all people to bring about salvation through His Son.

Broader Biblical Themes

God’s Covenant Faithfulness

Hodaiah’s inclusion in the chronicled lineage emphasizes God’s faithfulness to His covenant with David. Even through exile and apparent national collapse, the Lord preserved the royal line. God keeps His promises even when all hope seems lost.

The Value of Every Believer

The Bible’s careful listing of names in genealogies, including Hodaiah’s, teaches that every life matters in God‘s eyes. Whether well-known or obscure, each person has a place in His divine plan. This reflects the body of Christ, where every member is vital (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

Redemption Through Lineage

Through the Old Testament genealogies, we see the scarlet thread of redemption leading from Abraham, through David and Zerubbabel, down to Jesus. Hodaiah is one link in that redemptive chain, reminding us that history is not random, but sovereignly directed toward Christ.

Reflection Questions

1. What does Hodaiah’s presence in the genealogy of David teach us about God’s view of “ordinary” believers?

2. How can we find encouragement in being part of God’s larger plan, even if our contributions seem small?

3. In what ways does Hodaiah’s name, “The Lord is my praise,” challenge or inspire your daily walk with Christ?

4. How does God’s covenant faithfulness seen in genealogies deepen your trust in His promises for your life?

5. What does it mean to you personally that Jesus came from a long line of both famous and lesser-known people like Hodaiah?

Hodaiah’s quiet presence in Scripture is a strong reminder that God works in all things and through all people to bring about His purposes, culminating in Christ and offering hope to all who believe.