The name Avdeel is a theophoric compound combining eved (servant) and El (God), signifying "servant of God." It appears as the name of the father of Shelemiah, commanded by King Jehoiakim to arrest Jeremiah.
The theophoric name Avdeel reflects Israel's conviction that human identity is defined by relationship to the divine. The name's appearance in Jeremiah 36 illustrates how those bearing godly names can serve ungodly purposes — heritage does not guarantee faithfulness. True servanthood is demonstrated by obedience.