Topical Encyclopedia Eli'ab is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily known as the eldest son of Jesse and the eldest brother of David, the future king of Israel. His account is found in the context of the narrative of David's anointing and the battle against the Philistines, particularly in the books of 1 Samuel and 1 Chronicles.Family Background and Early Life Eli'ab was the firstborn son of Jesse, a Bethlehemite from the tribe of Judah. As the eldest of eight brothers, Eli'ab held a position of prominence within his family. His siblings included Abinadab, Shammah, and David, the youngest, who would later become the most famous of Jesse's sons. The family resided in Bethlehem, a town with significant historical and theological importance, as it was the prophesied birthplace of the Messiah (Micah 5:2). Appearance and Character Eli'ab is described as having a striking appearance, which initially impressed the prophet Samuel when he visited Jesse's household to anoint the next king of Israel. In 1 Samuel 16:6, it is recorded: "When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and said, 'Surely here before the LORD is His anointed.'" However, God instructed Samuel not to consider Eli'ab's outward appearance or height, for the Lord looks at the heart rather than external attributes (1 Samuel 16:7). Role in the Anointing of David Despite his impressive stature, Eli'ab was not chosen by God to be king. Instead, God selected David, the youngest son, who was tending sheep at the time. This choice underscores a recurring biblical theme that God often chooses the least likely candidates to fulfill His purposes, emphasizing divine sovereignty and wisdom over human expectations. Encounter with David at the Battlefront Eli'ab's most notable interaction with David occurs during the confrontation with the Philistines, where Goliath, the giant warrior, challenged the Israelites. Eli'ab, along with his brothers, was part of Saul's army encamped in the Valley of Elah. When David arrived to deliver provisions and check on his brothers, Eli'ab reacted with anger and jealousy. In 1 Samuel 17:28, Eli'ab chastised David, questioning his motives and accusing him of pride and insolence: "Why have you come down here? And with whom did you leave those few sheep in the wilderness? I know your pride and the wickedness of your heart; you have come down to see the battle." Eli'ab's reaction may reflect a mix of sibling rivalry and disbelief that his youngest brother could play a significant role in the battle. Despite Eli'ab's rebuke, David went on to defeat Goliath, demonstrating his faith in God and securing his future as Israel's king. Legacy and Significance Eli'ab's account serves as a reminder of the biblical principle that God's choices often defy human expectations. His life illustrates the importance of inner character over outward appearance and the potential for familial tensions when God's plans unfold in unexpected ways. While Eli'ab himself did not achieve the prominence of his younger brother David, his role in the narrative highlights the dynamics within Jesse's family and sets the stage for David's rise to kingship. References in Scripture · 1 Samuel 16:6-7 · 1 Samuel 17:13, 17:28 · 1 Chronicles 2:13 Eli'ab's presence in the biblical narrative, though brief, contributes to the rich tapestry of Israel's history and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the lineage of David. Concordance Eli'ab's (1 Occurrence)1 Samuel 17:28 Thesaurus Eli'ab's (1 Occurrence)Eli'ab's. Eliab's, Eli'ab's. Eliada . Multi-Version Concordance Eli'ab's (1 Occurrence). 1 Samuel 17:28 And Eliab his eldest brother ... /e/eli'ab's.htm - 6k Eliada (4 Occurrences) Eliab's (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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