Who was Jehoadah?

Jehoadah was a descendant of Benjamin, briefly mentioned in the genealogies found in the Old Testament. His name appears in 1 Chronicles 8:36 as part of the lineage of King Saul, Israel’s first monarch. Though little detail is given about Jehoadah’s life, his presence in the genealogical record highlights his role in preserving the legacy and tribal heritage of Benjamin.

The name Jehoadah (Hebrew: יְהוֹעָדָה, Yehôʿādāh) means “Yahweh has adorned” or “The LORD has united”. This theophoric name includes the divine name “Yah” (shortened form of Yahweh), indicating that his identity, like many in ancient Israel, was tied closely to the covenant God of Israel.

Biblical Reference and Cross-References

Jehoadah is mentioned in:

• 1 Chronicles 8:36 – “Ahaz was the father of Jehoaddah; Jehoaddah was the father of Alemeth, Azmaveth and Zimri; and Zimri was the father of Moza.”

This verse is part of a broader genealogical record that begins in 1 Chronicles 8:1, tracing the descendants of Benjamin down through the family of Saul. Other cross-references and connections include:

• 1 Chronicles 8:33-34 – Refers to Ner and Kish, leading up to Saul and Jonathan.

• 1 Chronicles 9:35-44 – Repeats much of the same genealogical information for the house of Saul.

• 2 Samuel 2:8-9 – Shows the continuing significance of Saul‘s house after his death.

Though Jehoadah himself is not the subject of any narrative or prophetic event, his place in the genealogy places him in the historical unfolding of Israel’s monarchy.

The Significance of Jehoadah in the Biblical Narrative

The Role of Genealogies in Scripture

Genealogies in Scripture are not mere historical records; they affirm God‘s providential guidance over generations and the unfolding of His redemptive plan. Jehoadah’s inclusion emphasizes:

• Continuity of God’s covenantal promises through the line of Benjamin and Saul.

• The importance of every individual in God’s plan, even those who appear only briefly.

His placement in the line of Saul shows how God maintained order and identity among the tribes, even through the rise and fall of kings.

What This Means for Christians Today

Jehoadah reminds modern believers that even those who seem obscure or unnoticed have a place in God‘s plan. Not everyone in Scripture was a prophet or king; many were ordinary men and women faithfully living their lives in covenant with God. Their faithfulness, even when unnamed in deeds, is not forgotten by the Lord.

In a world obsessed with fame and influence, Jehoadah’s brief mention is a quiet encouragement that significance in God’s eyes does not depend on recognition, but on faithfulness.

How Jehoadah’s Line Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Though Jehoadah was not in the direct lineage of Jesus (which comes through the tribe of Judah, not Benjamin), his genealogy is tied to Israel’s first king, Saul, which highlights the contrast between:

• Saul, the people’s choice, who ultimately failed due to disobedience, and

• Jesus, the Father’s chosen King, who perfectly obeyed and fulfilled all righteousness.

This contrast points to a central truth of the gospel: human leadership cannot save—only God’s appointed Messiah can. Saul’s dynasty ended, but Jesus’ kingdom will never end (Luke 1:33). The genealogical line of Saul reminds us of the brokenness of human attempts to rule apart from God’s will.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. God’s Sovereignty in History

Jehoadah’s inclusion in the genealogy demonstrates how God oversees every generation. He is sovereign not just over kings and prophets, but over ordinary lives.

2. Covenant and Tribal Identity

The genealogies preserved tribal boundaries and roles in Israel, essential for maintaining covenantal worship and land inheritance. This reflects God’s care for order and structure within His people.

3. Hidden Faithfulness

Just as God honored Jehoadah with a recorded name, the Lord sees those who live faithfully even without public notice. As Hebrews 6:10 reminds us, “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work.”

4. The Need for a Better King

The legacy of Saul, including Jehoadah’s branch of the family, reminds us of Israel’s need for a better Shepherd–King—ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

Reflection Questions

1. Do I believe that my life has value even if others do not recognize it?

2. How does Jehoadah’s place in Scripture encourage me to trust that God is working through generations?

3. Am I more concerned with public recognition or with being faithful in my daily walk with God?

4. How does the failure of Saul’s line help me see the beauty and necessity of Christ’s eternal kingship?

5. In what ways can I honor God quietly and consistently, trusting that He sees and values faithfulness?

Even a fleeting name like Jehoadah’s in the pages of Scripture reminds us that God’s purposes are unfolding across generations. Through Jesus, even the smallest part of the story has eternal meaning.