By what name did God want Solomon to be called?

The name “Jedidiah” not only reveals a personal touch from God but also serves as an affirmative and hopeful declaration about Solomon’s future. God calling Solomon “Jedidiah,” or "beloved of the Lord," shows His intentions for Solomon to embody virtues that reflect divine love and favor, which is a richness afforded to all of us as we navigate our journeys.

The backstory stretches back to a poignant moment for King David, reflecting the complexities of parental love, grace, and redemption. Solomon was born out of a difficult chapter for David, being the son of Bathsheba. Jedidiah emerges from what could easily have been a narrative purely about sin and consequence; instead, God’s voice invites a narrative of hope and promise.

It’s also interesting to note that the name Jedidiah is relatively rare in biblical text, which makes Solomon stand out as he ventures into his alegantly intricate path. This pairing of names—Solomon, representing peace and tranquility, juxtaposed with Jedidiah, echoing divine affection—adds rich layers to our understanding of his character.

Such themes are echoed throughout Scripture: the change of Abram to Abraham signifies promise and change, just as Jacob's name shifts to Israel during a transformative encounter. Each name change often harmonizes with a transition toward a higher purpose, knitting together divine narratives that focus on love, identity, and stewardship. Isn’t it fascinating how a name can encapsulate one's destiny, showing that what we call ourselves—or are called—can also shape who we are called to become?