Who was Iphedeiah?

Iphedeiah was a descendant of Benjamin, briefly mentioned in the genealogical record of the tribe in 1 Chronicles 8:25. His name appears in a long list of Benjamite family members recorded during the post-exilic chronicling of Israel’s tribal heritage. Though little is known about him personally, his inclusion in Scripture underscores the significance of lineage, covenant identity, and the faithfulness of God to preserve His people through generations.

The name Iphedeiah (Hebrew: יִפְדְיָה, Yiphdeyāh) is derived from the root word pādāh, meaning “to redeem” or “He will redeem.” Thus, Iphedeiah can be understood as “Yahweh redeems” or “Redemption of the LORD.” The name itself carries a theologically rich theme: divine redemption and deliverance by God.

Biblical References

• 1 Chronicles 8:25 – “And Iphedeiah, and Penuel, the sons of Shashak.”

• Cross-references:
  • 1 Chronicles 8:1-40 – The broader genealogy of the tribe of Benjamin.

  • 1 Chronicles 9:35-44 – A similar genealogical listing for post-exilic Israel.

  • Genesis 35:16-18 – The birth of Benjamin, the ancestor of this tribe.

  • Philippians 3:5 – Paul references his own Benjamite heritage, showing the continued recognition of these tribal roots in the New Testament.

Historical and Biblical Context

The genealogies in 1 Chronicles were likely compiled after the Babylonian exile as a way of reestablishing the people of Israel in their covenantal identity. They provided continuity and structure for the returning exiles, reaffirming God’s covenant faithfulness even after national judgment.

Iphedeiah appears among the sons of Shashak, a Benjamite whose descendants are listed as inhabitants of Jerusalem. This section of 1 Chronicles 8 likely refers to the pre-exilic era, but the chronicler was preserving this record for a post-exilic audience. These lists functioned not only as historical documents but as testimonies to God’s enduring commitment to His chosen people.

Although Iphedeiah is not described in any narrative, his presence in the genealogy represents the continuity of the tribe of Benjamin—a tribe that produced both King Saul and the Apostle Paul.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

Iphedeiah’s life is hidden from us, but his name speaks volumes. “The Lord redeems.” Even without personal stories or grand deeds, Iphedeiah’s inclusion in the genealogical record is a quiet testament to God’s remembrance of His people.

For Christians today, Iphedeiah reminds us that even seemingly unknown individuals matter in God’s redemptive plan. Many believers may feel unnoticed or insignificant, but Scripture assures us that God knows each one by name (Isaiah 43:1), and each has a part in the unfolding story of redemption.

The mention of his name is a reflection of God‘s character—He is a Redeemer. Every person whose name is recorded in Scripture, even in genealogies, reflects the greater work God is doing through families, history, and covenant promises.

How Iphedeiah’s Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Though we know nothing of Iphedeiah’s personal actions, his name—“The LORD redeems”—is a clear pointer to Jesus Christ, the Redeemer of mankind. Jesus is the fulfillment of the promise implicit in Iphedeiah’s name:

• Ephesians 1:7 – “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins.”

• Titus 2:14 – “[Jesus] gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness…”

Jesus is the embodiment of the redemptive character of God. The presence of names like Iphedeiah in Scripture reinforces the overarching biblical narrative that God has always been in the business of redemption—calling, preserving, and saving His people.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. The Significance of Genealogies

Genealogies in the Bible are more than lists of names—they are affirmations of God‘s faithfulness. Iphedeiah is part of this divine record, reminding us that God works through families, heritage, and covenant continuity.

2. Redemption Through God Alone

The meaning of Iphedeiah’s name links directly to the theme of redemption, a thread woven from Genesis to Revelation. From the redemption of Israel from Egypt to Christ‘s atoning work on the cross, the Bible consistently presents Yahweh as the sole source of salvation.

3. Faithfulness in Obscurity

Many names in the Bible, like Iphedeiah, are not attached to mighty deeds or miracles, but their inclusion reflects God’s remembrance. Faithfulness doesn’t always make headlines, but it is precious in God’s sight.

4. Continuity of the Covenant

God preserved the tribe of Benjamin, including minor figures, as a testimony of His covenantal promises. This reinforces the trustworthiness of God to fulfill His promises, culminating in the Messiah who came from the tribe of Judah but ministered among all Israel.

Reflection Questions

1. How does the meaning of the name “Iphedeiah” deepen your understanding of God as Redeemer?

2. What encouragement can you draw from the fact that even obscure individuals are remembered in God’s Word?

3. In what ways can your life reflect God‘s redemptive work, even if it seems hidden or small?

4. How do genealogical records in the Bible strengthen your confidence in God‘s faithfulness across generations?

5. Are you trusting in God’s redeeming power in your own life and in your family’s story?

Iphedeiah, though silent in Scripture’s narrative, speaks through his name and inclusion. He reminds us that God sees the unseen, remembers the unknown, and accomplishes His redemptive plan even through the lives that history forgets but heaven remembers.