The Hebrew proper name Abiyda (אֲבִידָע) means "My Father knows" or "Father of knowledge" — from ab (father) and yada (to know). The name appears in Genesis 25:4 and 1 Chronicles 1:33 as a son of Midian, who was himself a son of Abraham by Keturah — making Abida a grandson of Abraham.
The Midianite line of Abraham — through Keturah — is often overlooked but theologically significant. While the Mosaic covenant was given to Israel specifically, the descendants of Abraham through Keturah (including the Midianites) were recipients of his blessing and were considered part of the broader family of faith. The name Abida — "My Father knows" — echoes the Hebrew understanding that God's knowledge (yada) is intimate and personal. The same root yada is used for God "knowing" Israel in Amos 3:2 and for the New Covenant promise: "They will all know me" (Jeremiah 31:34). To be known by God is the deepest form of relationship.