Topical Encyclopedia Elihoenai is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the post-exilic community. His name, which can be translated to mean "My eyes are toward Yahweh" or "God is my eyes," reflects a theocentric focus, common in Hebrew nomenclature.Biblical References: Elihoenai is primarily mentioned in the context of the return from the Babylonian exile, a significant event in Jewish history that marked the restoration of the Jewish community in Jerusalem and Judah. He is listed among the descendants of the exiles who returned to Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel. 1. Ezra 8:4 · In the book of Ezra, Elihoenai is identified as one of the leaders of the family groups returning to Jerusalem. The text states: "of the descendants of Pahath-moab, Elihoenai son of Zerahiah, and with him 200 men." This passage highlights his role as a leader among his people, responsible for guiding a group of returnees. 2. 1 Chronicles 3:24 · Elihoenai is also mentioned in the genealogical records of the descendants of David. The verse reads: "The sons of Elioenai: Hodaviah, Eliashib, Pelaiah, Akkub, Johanan, Delaiah, and Anani—seven in all." Here, Elihoenai is listed as a descendant of the royal line, indicating his connection to the Davidic lineage. Historical and Theological Context: The return from exile was a pivotal moment for the Jewish people, as it marked the fulfillment of prophetic promises and the re-establishment of the Jewish community in their ancestral land. Leaders like Elihoenai played crucial roles in organizing and leading the people during this period of restoration and rebuilding. Elihoenai's inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the post-exilic community. The chronicling of his name serves to affirm the continuity of the Davidic line, which held messianic significance for the Jewish people. This connection to the Davidic dynasty is essential in understanding the broader biblical narrative, which anticipates the coming of a Messiah from the line of David. Cultural and Religious Significance: Names in the Hebrew Bible often carry deep theological meanings, and Elihoenai is no exception. His name, meaning "My eyes are toward Yahweh," reflects a posture of faith and reliance on God. This is particularly significant in the context of the return from exile, a time when the Jewish people were called to renew their covenantal relationship with God and to trust in His providence and guidance. Elihoenai's role as a leader among the returnees highlights the importance of faithful leadership in times of transition and uncertainty. His leadership would have been instrumental in the physical and spiritual rebuilding of the community, emphasizing the need for godly leaders who direct their eyes and the eyes of their people toward Yahweh. In summary, Elihoenai is a figure whose mention in the biblical text, though brief, is rich with historical, theological, and cultural significance. His leadership during the return from exile and his connection to the Davidic line contribute to the overarching narrative of God's faithfulness to His people and the anticipation of the coming Messiah. Smith's Bible Dictionary Elihoenai(my eyes are toward Jehovah), son of Zerahiah, who with 200 men returned from the captivity with Ezra. (Ezra 8:4) (B.C. 459.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ELIHOENAIel-i-ho-e'-na-i. Strong's Hebrew 454. Elyhow'eynay -- "toward Yah (are) my eyes," two Israelites... "toward Yah (are) my eyes," two Israelites. Transliteration: Elyhow'eynay Phonetic Spelling: (el-ye-ho-ay-nah'ee) Short Definition: Elihoenai. Elihoenai, Elionai ... /hebrew/454.htm - 6k Thesaurus Elihoenai (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ELIHOENAI. el-i-ho-e'-na-i. See ELIEHOENAI. Multi-Version Concordance Elihoenai (1 Occurrence). ... /e/elihoenai.htm - 6k Elihoreph (1 Occurrence) Elihaba Eliehoenai (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Elihoenai (1 Occurrence)Ezra 8:4 Subtopics Related Terms |
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