Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Meaning: El-elohe-Israel is a Hebrew phrase meaning "God, the God of Israel." This name signifies a personal acknowledgment and dedication to God by Jacob, who was later named Israel. It reflects a deep, personal relationship with God and recognition of His sovereignty and faithfulness. Biblical Reference: The name El-elohe-Israel is found in Genesis 33:20. After Jacob's reconciliation with his brother Esau and his return to the land of Canaan, he purchased a plot of land near Shechem. There, he erected an altar and named it El-elohe-Israel. The Berean Standard Bible translates this verse as: "There he set up an altar and called it El-Elohe-Israel." Context and Significance: The context of Genesis 33 is crucial for understanding the significance of El-elohe-Israel. Jacob had just experienced a profound transformation after wrestling with God at Peniel (Genesis 32:24-30), where he was given the name Israel, meaning "he struggles with God." This encounter marked a turning point in Jacob's life, symbolizing his spiritual growth and the establishment of a covenant relationship with God. Upon his return to Canaan, Jacob's act of building an altar and naming it El-elohe-Israel was a public declaration of his faith and commitment to the God who had protected and blessed him throughout his journey. It was an acknowledgment of God's role as the divine protector and provider for the nation that would come from Jacob's descendants. Theological Implications: El-elohe-Israel underscores the personal nature of God's relationship with His people. It highlights the idea that God is not just a distant deity but is intimately involved in the lives of those who follow Him. This name also emphasizes the covenantal aspect of God's relationship with Israel, as it was through Jacob's lineage that the nation of Israel would emerge, fulfilling God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The use of the name El-elohe-Israel serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of acknowledging His sovereignty in all aspects of life. It reflects the biblical theme of God's enduring commitment to His people and His desire for them to recognize Him as their one true God. Historical and Cultural Context: In the ancient Near Eastern context, building altars and naming them after deities was a common practice. These altars served as places of worship and remembrance, marking significant encounters with the divine. By naming the altar El-elohe-Israel, Jacob was not only establishing a place of worship but also setting a spiritual landmark for future generations to remember God's faithfulness and the identity of Israel as God's chosen people. Relevance for Today: For contemporary believers, the name El-elohe-Israel serves as an inspiration to cultivate a personal and covenantal relationship with God. It encourages individuals to recognize God's active presence in their lives and to respond with worship and dedication. The account of Jacob and the naming of the altar remind believers of the importance of acknowledging God's sovereignty and faithfulness in their own spiritual journeys. Easton's Bible Dictionary Mighty one; God of Israel, the name which Jacob gave to the alter which he erected on the piece of land where he pitched his tent before Shechem, and which he afterwards purchased from the sons of Hamor (Genesis 33:20). Thesaurus EleloheIsreal/e/eleloheisreal.htm - 6k El-elohe-Isreal Elem (2 Occurrences) El-el'ohe-Israel (1 Occurrence) Resources What is the meaning of the word Elohim? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Jacob in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does Israel mean in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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