Topical Encyclopedia 1. Definition and Meaning:Elah's refers to a location or a person associated with the biblical narrative, primarily found in the Old Testament. The term "Elah" itself is often associated with the Hebrew word for "terebinth" or "oak," which are types of large trees. This connection to nature may symbolize strength or endurance in biblical symbolism. 2. Valley of Elah: The Valley of Elah is a significant geographical location in the biblical account, most notably in the account of David and Goliath. It is situated in the territory of Judah, southwest of Jerusalem. The valley served as the battleground for the confrontation between the Israelites and the Philistines. In 1 Samuel 17:2, it is recorded: "Saul and the men of Israel gathered and camped in the Valley of Elah, and they drew up in battle formation to meet the Philistines." 3. Elah, the Father of Hoshea: Elah is also the name of a person in the Bible, specifically the father of Hoshea, the last king of Israel. Hoshea became king after conspiring against and assassinating Pekah, as noted in 2 Kings 15:30: "Then Hoshea son of Elah conspired against Pekah son of Remaliah, attacked and killed him, and reigned in his place in the twentieth year of Jotham son of Uzziah." 4. Elah, King of Israel: Another notable figure named Elah was the fourth king of Israel, the son of Baasha. His reign was marked by idolatry and moral decline, leading to his assassination by Zimri, one of his officials. This event is recorded in 1 Kings 16:8-10: "In the twenty-sixth year of Asa’s reign over Judah, Elah son of Baasha became king of Israel, and he reigned in Tirzah two years. However, while Elah was in Tirzah, drinking himself drunk in the house of Arza, who was in charge of the palace at Tirzah, Zimri came in, struck him down, and killed him." 5. Symbolism and Lessons: The accounts involving Elah's, whether as a location or individuals, offer various lessons and insights. The Valley of Elah is a testament to God's deliverance and the triumph of faith over physical might, as demonstrated in David's victory over Goliath. The accounts of Elah, the father of Hoshea, and Elah, the king of Israel, serve as reminders of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and the instability that follows disobedience and idolatry. 6. Archaeological and Historical Context: The Valley of Elah has been a subject of archaeological interest, with excavations revealing insights into the ancient landscape and settlements. The historical context of the kings named Elah provides a glimpse into the turbulent period of the divided monarchy in Israel, characterized by political intrigue and shifting alliances. 7. References in Scripture: · 1 Samuel 17:2 (Valley of Elah) · 2 Kings 15:30 (Elah, father of Hoshea) · 1 Kings 16:8-10 (Elah, King of Israel) These references highlight the multifaceted role of Elah's in the biblical narrative, encompassing both geographical and personal dimensions within the history of Israel. Concordance Elah's (1 Occurrence)1 Kings 16:14 Thesaurus Elah's (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Elah's (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 16:14 Now the rest of the acts of Elah, and all that he did, are they not ... /e/elah's.htm - 6k Elah (17 Occurrences) Omri (16 Occurrences) Elaleh (3 Occurrences) Zimri (16 Occurrences) Resources Who was King Elah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was King Zimri in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |