Name Meaning: The name Elza'phan is derived from Hebrew, meaning "God has protected" or "God is a treasure."

Biblical References:

1. Lineage and Family: Elza'phan, also spelled Elizaphan, is a notable figure in the Old Testament, particularly within the context of the Levitical priesthood. He is identified as the son of Uzziel, who was a son of Kohath, making Elza'phan a member of the Kohathite clan of the Levites. This lineage is significant as the Kohathites were entrusted with the care of the most sacred objects of the tabernacle. Elza'phan's family is mentioned in the genealogical records in the Book of Exodus: "The sons of Kohath were Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel" (Exodus 6:18).

2. Role in the Tabernacle: Elza'phan's role is highlighted during the wilderness period when the Israelites were instructed on the organization and duties concerning the tabernacle. As a leader among the Kohathites, Elza'phan was responsible for overseeing the transport and care of the sacred objects. Numbers 3:30 states, "The leader of the families of the Kohathites was Elizaphan son of Uzziel" . This position underscores his importance in maintaining the sanctity and proper handling of the holy items.

3. Service during the Exodus: During the incident involving the deaths of Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, Elza'phan was called upon to perform a critical duty. Leviticus 10:4 records, "Moses summoned Mishael and Elzaphan, the sons of Aaron’s uncle Uzziel, and said to them, 'Come here and carry your brothers outside the camp, away from the front of the sanctuary'" . This task was significant as it involved the removal of the bodies of the priests who had been struck down by God for offering unauthorized fire, highlighting the gravity of maintaining holiness in the service of the Lord.

4. Leadership and Authority: Elza'phan's leadership is further emphasized in the context of the census and organization of the Levites. Numbers 4:15-16 details the responsibilities of the Kohathites, under the leadership of Elza'phan, in the dismantling and transportation of the tabernacle's sacred items. His authority in these matters reflects the trust placed in him and his family to uphold the divine ordinances given to the Israelites.

Theological Significance:

Elza'phan's life and service illustrate the importance of obedience and reverence in the worship of God. His role in the priestly duties of the tabernacle underscores the sacred responsibility of the Levites to maintain the holiness of God's dwelling place among His people. The narrative of Elza'phan also serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience, as seen in the incident with Nadab and Abihu, and the necessity for those who serve God to adhere strictly to His commands.

Historical Context:

Elza'phan lived during the time of the Exodus, a pivotal period in Israelite history when God delivered His people from Egyptian bondage and established them as a nation under His covenant. The organization of the Levitical priesthood and the establishment of the tabernacle were central to the religious life of Israel, with Elza'phan playing a key role in these developments. His service reflects the broader themes of covenant faithfulness and divine order that are prevalent throughout the Pentateuch.Elza'phan (2 Occurrences)

Exodus 6:22
And the sons of Uzziel: Mishael, and Elzaphan, and Sithri.
(See RSV)

Leviticus 10:4
And Moses called Mishael and Elzaphan, the sons of Uzziel the uncle of Aaron, and said unto them: 'Draw near, carry your brethren from before the sanctuary out of the camp.'
(See RSV)

Elza'phan (2 Occurrences)
Elza'phan. Elzaphan, Elza'phan. Emadabun . Multi-Version Concordance
Elza'phan (2 Occurrences). Exodus 6:22 And the sons of Uzziel ...
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Emadabun

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Elzaphan (2 Occurrences)

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