Topical Encyclopedia Eli-o-e'nai is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the tribes of Israel. The name Eli-o-e'nai is understood to mean "My eyes are toward God" or "Unto God are my eyes," reflecting a posture of faith and reliance on the divine.Genealogical Context Eli-o-e'nai appears in the genealogies of the tribe of Benjamin. In 1 Chronicles 7:8, Eli-o-e'nai is listed among the descendants of Becher, one of Benjamin's sons. The passage reads: "The sons of Becher: Zemirah, Joash, Eliezer, Elioenai, Omri, Jeremoth, Abijah, Anathoth, and Alemeth. All these were the sons of Becher" . This genealogical record highlights the importance of family lineage and tribal affiliation in the history of Israel, serving as a testament to the continuity of God's covenant with His people. Post-Exilic Period Eli-o-e'nai is also mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period, a time when the Israelites returned from Babylonian captivity to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple. In Ezra 10:22, Eli-o-e'nai is listed among the sons of Pashhur who had taken foreign wives, an action contrary to the Mosaic Law. The verse states: "And among the descendants of Pashhur: Elioenai, Maaseiah, Ishmael, Nethanel, Jozabad, and Elasah" . This inclusion in the narrative underscores the challenges faced by the returning exiles in maintaining their distinct identity and adherence to the Law of Moses. Theological Significance The mention of Eli-o-e'nai in these genealogical and historical contexts serves as a reminder of the faithfulness required of God's people. The name itself, meaning "My eyes are toward God," suggests a posture of trust and dependence on the Lord, which is a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures. The narrative involving Eli-o-e'nai in the book of Ezra highlights the importance of obedience to God's commandments and the need for repentance and reform in the life of the community. Cultural and Historical Insights The inclusion of Eli-o-e'nai in the biblical record provides insight into the cultural and historical milieu of ancient Israel. Genealogies were crucial for establishing identity, inheritance rights, and tribal affiliations. They also served to demonstrate the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs, as the continuity of the tribes was essential for the coming of the Messiah, who would be born from the line of David, a descendant of Judah. In summary, Eli-o-e'nai is a figure whose presence in the biblical text, though brief, contributes to the rich tapestry of Israel's history and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. His name and the circumstances surrounding his mention in Scripture offer valuable lessons on faithfulness, obedience, and the importance of maintaining a covenant relationship with God. Concordance Eli-o-e'nai (7 Occurrences)1 Chronicles 3:23 1 Chronicles 3:24 1 Chronicles 4:36 1 Chronicles 7:8 Ezra 10:22 Ezra 10:27 Nehemiah 12:41 Thesaurus Eli-oe'nai (7 Occurrences)Eli-oe'nai. Elioenai, Eli-oe'nai. Elionas . Multi-Version Concordance Eli-oe'nai (7 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 3:23 And the sons ... /e/eli-o-e'nai.htm - 8k Elioenai (8 Occurrences) Elionas Resources Who was Eli in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Samuel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Hannah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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