Avidan

Avidan is a Hebrew name and surname, derived from the given name Abidan. The roots of Avidan lie in biblical Hebrew, where Abidan appears as a minor figure in the Old Testament: according to the Book of Numbers, Abidan was a prince of the tribe of Benjamin in the time of Moses. His name is formed from the elements ʾav meaning "father" and din meaning "to judge", yielding the meaning "my father has judged" or "father is judge".

While the name Abidan has ancient origins, its Hebrew equivalent Avidan is also used as a modern surname in Israel and the Jewish diaspora. Among contemporary bearers, several individuals have achieved prominence.

Notable bearers include Asaf Avidan (born 1980), an Israeli singer-songwriter and musician known for his solo work and the band Asaf Avidan & the Mojos, who gained international recognition with the hit "Reckoning Song". Dan Avidan (born 1979) is an American musician, Internet personality, and comedian of Israeli descent, best known as one half of the musical comedy duo Ninja Sex Party and as co-host of the web series Game Grumps. David Avidan (1934–1995) was an Israeli poet, painter, filmmaker, publicist, and playwright associated with the avant-garde and known for introducing free verse into Hebrew poetry. Shimon Avidan (1911–1994) was an Israeli soldier and officer who served as the commander of the Givati Brigade in the 1948 Arab–Israeli War.

The name Avidan continues to be used both as a first name and a surname, carrying with it a biblical heritage and resonance with themes of justice and familial devotion.