Eliam, also known as Ammiel, is a biblical figure recognized primarily as the father of Bath-Sheba, the wife of King David and mother of Solomon. His name appears in the context of the narrative surrounding David's reign and the events that led to the birth of Solomon, a significant figure in Israel's history.

Biblical References:

Eliam is mentioned in the context of Bath-Sheba's lineage in 2 Samuel 11:3: "So David sent someone to inquire about the woman, and he was told, 'This is Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah the Hittite.'" . This passage introduces Eliam as Bath-Sheba's father, linking him to the tragic and complex account of David's adultery and the subsequent events that unfolded.

In 1 Chronicles 3:5, Bath-Sheba is referred to as the daughter of Ammiel: "These were the children born to him in Jerusalem: Shimea, Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon. These four were born to David by Bathsheba daughter of Ammiel." . The name Ammiel is understood to be another form of Eliam, suggesting a possible variation in the transcription or translation of names over time.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Eliam's identity is further enriched by his connection to the elite group of warriors known as David's Mighty Men. In 2 Samuel 23:34, Eliam is listed as the son of Ahithophel the Gilonite, a counselor to David: "Eliphelet son of Ahasbai the Maacathite, Eliam son of Ahithophel the Gilonite." . This association places Eliam within a prominent family, as Ahithophel was a notable advisor whose counsel was highly regarded, though he later betrayed David during Absalom's rebellion.

The dual identification of Eliam as Ammiel and his connection to Ahithophel suggest a complex family dynamic, possibly influencing the narrative of Bath-Sheba and David. Ahithophel's betrayal of David might have been motivated by personal grievances, potentially linked to the events involving his granddaughter Bath-Sheba.

Theological Significance:

Eliam's role, though not extensively detailed in the biblical text, is significant in understanding the broader narrative of David's kingship and the lineage of Solomon. Bath-Sheba's marriage to David and the birth of Solomon are pivotal in the unfolding of God's covenantal promises to David, as Solomon would go on to build the Temple and establish a period of peace and prosperity in Israel.

Eliam's mention in the genealogical and narrative records underscores the interconnectedness of personal relationships and divine purposes in the biblical account. His legacy, through Bath-Sheba and Solomon, is woven into the fabric of Israel's history and the messianic lineage, highlighting the intricate ways in which God works through human history to fulfill His promises.1 Chronicles 3:5
And these were born to him in Jerusalem; Shimea, and Shobab, and Nathan, and Solomon, four, of Bathshua the daughter of Ammiel:
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