Elishah is a figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Bible, specifically in the Table of Nations found in Genesis 10. According to Genesis 10:4 , "The sons of Javan: Elishah, Tarshish, the Kittites, and the Rodanites." Elishah is identified as a descendant of Javan, who was a son of Japheth, one of Noah's three sons. This places Elishah among the post-flood nations that spread out across the earth.

The name Elishah is often associated with the regions and islands of the Mediterranean Sea. Ezekiel 27:7 provides further insight into the geographical and cultural significance of Elishah: "Your sail was made of fine embroidered linen from Egypt, and your awning of blue and purple from the coasts of Elishah." This passage, part of a lamentation over the city of Tyre, suggests that Elishah was known for its production of fine textiles, particularly those dyed in blue and purple, which were highly valued in the ancient world.

The identification of Elishah with specific locations in the Mediterranean has been a subject of scholarly discussion. Some traditions and historical interpretations suggest that Elishah may refer to regions such as Cyprus or parts of Greece, including the Peloponnesian area. The connection to the Mediterranean islands is further supported by the mention of maritime trade and the exchange of luxury goods, which were characteristic of the ancient civilizations in this region.

The descendants of Elishah, as part of the broader Japhethite lineage, are believed to have played a role in the spread of Indo-European peoples across Europe and parts of Asia. This aligns with the biblical narrative of the dispersion of nations following the events at the Tower of Babel, as described in Genesis 11.

In the context of biblical prophecy and eschatology, the mention of Elishah and its associated regions may also hold significance. The prophetic literature often uses geographical names to symbolize nations and peoples involved in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. Thus, Elishah, as part of the Table of Nations, contributes to the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty over all nations and His ultimate purpose for humanity.

In summary, Elishah is a biblical figure whose name is associated with the islands and coastal regions of the Mediterranean. The references to Elishah in Genesis and Ezekiel highlight its historical and cultural importance in the ancient world, particularly in the context of trade and commerce. The legacy of Elishah, as part of the descendants of Javan, reflects the broader narrative of the dispersion and development of nations as recorded in the Scriptures.Ezekiel 27:7
Fine linen with broidered work from Egypt was that which you spread forth to be your sail; blue and purple from the isles of Elishah was that which covered you.
Nave's Topical Index

Chapter x
... "Elishah" should then be referred to the district Elis ... the terminology of his day,
For "the islands of the nations" are really the Mediterranean coast line ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter x.htm

Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest
... is called Aubila, "the meadow;" while others bear such names ... to the west, and struck
the Mediterranean near Acre ... connected it with the scriptural Elishah, and W ...
/.../chapter iisyria at the beginning.htm

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