בְּרֹאדַךְ בַּלְאֲדָן

# Merodach-Baladan: A Babylonian Name in Biblical Text The Hebrew term בְּרֹאדַךְ בַּלְאֲדָן (Merodach-Baladan) represents a proper name—specifically, that of a Babylonian ruler. The transliteration reveals the name's composite structure, combining religious and personal elements typical of Mesopotamian nomenclature. As a proper noun, it functions as a historical identifier within the biblical text rather than as a common word with multiple meanings or theological symbolism. The name appears exactly twice in the biblical record, indicating limited but intentional inclusion. This double occurrence suggests the figure held sufficient historical importance to warrant mention in multiple biblical contexts, though the lexicon data provided does not specify which biblical passages contain these references or what roles Merodach-Baladan played in the narratives where he appears. The minimal frequency of appearance contrasts with the apparent significance of the person named, pointing to selective biblical engagement with this foreign ruler. Understanding this entry requires recognizing that biblical lexicons often include proper names of foreign rulers and nations encountered by Israel and Judah. Merodach-Baladan's presence in the Hebrew biblical text reflects the geopolitical interactions between ancient Israel and Babylon, though the limited data here prevents fuller analysis of his political or historical significance within those interactions.