Topical Encyclopedia Elihaba is a lesser-known figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of King David's mighty warriors. His name, which can be translated to mean "God is the Father," reflects the theophoric nature common in Hebrew names, indicating a connection or relationship with God.Biblical References: Elihaba is mentioned in 2 Samuel 23:32-33, which is part of a passage listing the "mighty men" who served King David. These men were renowned for their bravery, skill in battle, and loyalty to David during his reign over Israel. The Berean Standard Bible records: > "Eliahba the Shaalbonite, the sons of Jashen, Jonathan" (2 Samuel 23:32). This passage is part of a longer list that details the exploits and names of David's elite warriors, known as the "Thirty." These men were instrumental in establishing and securing David's kingdom, often engaging in significant battles and demonstrating exceptional valor. Historical and Cultural Context: The mention of Elihaba as a "Shaalbonite" suggests his origin from Shaalbon, a town whose exact location is not definitively known but is believed to be in the region of Benjamin or Ephraim. This geographical detail provides insight into the diverse backgrounds of David's warriors, who came from various tribes and regions of Israel. The role of David's mighty men was crucial during a time when Israel was transitioning from a loose confederation of tribes to a centralized monarchy. These warriors were not only skilled in combat but also deeply loyal to David, often risking their lives to support his kingship and the establishment of Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of Israel. Theological Significance: Elihaba's inclusion in the list of David's mighty men highlights the importance of individual contributions to God's overarching plan for Israel. Each warrior, though perhaps not as prominently featured as others like Joab or Abishai, played a vital role in the success and stability of David's reign. This reflects a broader biblical theme where God uses a diverse array of individuals to accomplish His purposes, emphasizing the value of faithfulness and courage in service to God's chosen leaders. Legacy: While Elihaba himself is not the subject of detailed narratives or exploits within the biblical text, his mention serves as a testament to the collective strength and dedication of David's warriors. His legacy, like that of many others in the list, is preserved in Scripture as a reminder of the importance of loyalty and bravery in the service of God's anointed king. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ELIHABAe-li'-ha-ba. Thesaurus ElihabaElihaba. Elie'zer, Elihaba. Elihoenai . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ELIHABA. e-li'-ha-ba. See ELIAHBA. Elie'zer, Elihaba. Elihoenai . ... /e/elihaba.htm - 6k Elie'zer (14 Occurrences) Elihoenai (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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