Topical Encyclopedia Eliphelehu is a lesser-known biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. His name appears in the context of the descendants of David, specifically within the lineage of the royal family of Judah. The name "Eliphelehu" is believed to mean "God is distinguished" or "God of distinction," reflecting the theophoric nature of many Hebrew names, which often include a reference to God.Biblical References: Eliphelehu is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 3:6-8, which provides a record of the sons of David born to him in Jerusalem. The passage reads: "These were born to him in Jerusalem: Shimea, Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon. These four were by Bathsheba daughter of Ammiel. There were also Ibhar, Elishama, Eliphelet, Nogah, Nepheg, Japhia, Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelehu." (1 Chronicles 3:5-8) In this passage, Eliphelehu is listed among the sons of David, though he is not as prominently featured as some of his brothers, such as Solomon or Nathan. The genealogical record in 1 Chronicles serves to establish the lineage of David, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's covenant with David regarding his descendants and the enduring nature of his dynasty. Historical and Theological Context: The genealogies in 1 Chronicles are significant for several reasons. They underscore the importance of David's line in the history of Israel and the fulfillment of God's promises. The Chronicler, writing after the Babylonian exile, sought to remind the returned exiles of their heritage and the divine promises associated with the Davidic line. Eliphelehu, though not a central figure, is part of this broader narrative that highlights God's faithfulness to His covenant with David. The inclusion of Eliphelehu in the genealogical record also reflects the Chronicler's meticulous attention to detail and the importance of preserving the history and lineage of the tribes of Israel. Each name in the genealogy serves as a testament to the continuity of God's plan and the unfolding of His purposes through the generations. Significance in Biblical Genealogy: While Eliphelehu himself does not play a prominent role in biblical narratives, his mention in the genealogies contributes to the broader understanding of the Davidic line. The genealogies in 1 Chronicles, including the mention of Eliphelehu, serve as a bridge between the past promises made to David and the future hope of a messianic king who would come from his line. This hope is ultimately fulfilled in the New Testament with the coming of Jesus Christ, who is recognized as the Son of David and the promised Messiah. In summary, Eliphelehu is a minor yet integral part of the biblical genealogical record, representing the continuity of God's covenantal promises through the lineage of David. His inclusion in the Scriptures underscores the importance of every individual in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for humanity. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ELIPHELEHUe-lif'-e-le-hu ('eliphelehu, "May God distinguish him," the King James Version Elipheleh): Strong's Hebrew 466. Eliphelehu -- "may God distinguish him," a doorkeeper... Eliphelehu. 467 . "may God distinguish him," a doorkeeper. Transliteration: Eliphelehu Phonetic Spelling: (el-ee-fe-lay'-hoo) Short Definition: Eliphelehu. ... /hebrew/466.htm - 6k Thesaurus Eliphelehu (2 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ELIPHELEHU. e-lif'-e-le ... 15:18). Multi-Version Concordance Eliphelehu (2 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles ... /e/eliphelehu.htm - 7k Elipheleh (2 Occurrences) O'bed-e'dom (14 Occurrences) Je-i'el (11 Occurrences) Jeiel (13 Occurrences) Eliphalehu (2 Occurrences) Mikneiah (2 Occurrences) Mattithiah (8 Occurrences) Obed-edom (16 Occurrences) Unni (3 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Eliphelehu (2 Occurrences)1 Chronicles 15:18 1 Chronicles 15:21 Subtopics Related Terms |