Eli'shah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Table of Nations in the Book of Genesis. He is identified as a descendant of Japheth, one of the sons of Noah. The name Eli'shah is found in Genesis 10:4, which states: "The sons of Javan: Elishah, Tarshish, the Kittites, and the Rodanites." . Eli'shah is traditionally understood to be the progenitor of a people or region associated with the ancient world.

Genealogical Context

Eli'shah is listed as a son of Javan, who was a son of Japheth. Japheth is one of the three sons of Noah, and his descendants are traditionally associated with the peoples of Europe and parts of Asia. The genealogical listing in Genesis 10, often referred to as the Table of Nations, outlines the spread of Noah's descendants after the Flood and their establishment of various nations and ethnic groups.

Historical and Geographical Associations

The descendants of Eli'shah are often linked to the ancient maritime people known as the Greeks. Some scholars and historians suggest that Eli'shah may be associated with the region of Elis in the Peloponnese of Greece, or possibly with the Aeolians, an ancient Greek tribe. The connection to maritime activities is supported by the mention of Javan, who is frequently associated with the Ionian Greeks and the broader Greek world.

Biblical References and Interpretations

Eli'shah is mentioned in Ezekiel 27:7, which describes the trading activities of Tyre: "Fine embroidered linen from Egypt was your sail, which served as your banner; your awnings were of blue and purple from the coasts of Elishah." . This passage suggests that the region or people associated with Eli'shah were known for producing valuable goods, particularly textiles, which were traded with the Phoenician city of Tyre.

Cultural and Theological Significance

In the broader biblical narrative, the mention of Eli'shah and his descendants serves to illustrate the fulfillment of God's command to Noah and his sons to "be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth" (Genesis 9:1). The Table of Nations, including the lineage of Eli'shah, demonstrates the spread of humanity and the establishment of diverse cultures and languages, which is further elaborated in the account of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11.

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Eli'shah in the biblical genealogies underscores the interconnectedness of all nations and peoples as part of God's creation. It highlights the theme of divine providence in the distribution and development of human societies across the earth.Eli'shah (3 Occurrences)

Genesis 10:4
And the sons of Javan: Elishah, and Tarshish, Kittim, and Dodanim.
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 1:7
And the sons of Javan: Elishah, and Tarshish, Kittim, and Rodanim.
(See RSV)

Ezekiel 27:7
Of fine linen with embroidery from Egypt hath been thy sail, To be to thee for an ensign, Of blue and purple from isles of Elishah hath been thy covering.
(See RSV)

Eli'shah (3 Occurrences)
Eli'shah. Elishah, Eli'shah. Elishama . Multi-Version Concordance Eli'shah
(3 Occurrences). Genesis 10:4 And the sons of Javan: Elishah ...
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Elishah (3 Occurrences)

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Elishama (17 Occurrences)

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