Elishua is a lesser-known figure in the biblical narrative, recognized as one of the sons of King David, the second king of Israel, and his wife Bathsheba. His name, Elishua, is of Hebrew origin, meaning "God is salvation." This name reflects the deep-seated tradition in Israelite culture of attributing divine significance to personal names, often expressing a theological truth or hope.

Biblical References

Elishua is mentioned in the genealogical records of David's family. In 2 Samuel 5:14 , the text states: "These are the names of the children born to him in Jerusalem: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, Ibhar, Elishua, Nepheg, Japhia." Similarly, 1 Chronicles 14:4-5 lists: "These are the names of the children born to him in Jerusalem: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, Ibhar, Elishua, Elpelet, Nogah, Nepheg, Japhia, Elishama, Beeliada, and Eliphelet."

Family Context

Elishua was born in Jerusalem, during the period when David had established his reign over all Israel and had made the city his capital. His mother, Bathsheba, is a prominent biblical figure, known for her complex relationship with David, which began under controversial circumstances. Bathsheba later became a significant influence in the royal court, particularly in securing the succession of her son Solomon to the throne.

Elishua's siblings include notable figures such as Solomon, who succeeded David as king and is renowned for his wisdom and for building the First Temple in Jerusalem. Nathan, another of Elishua's brothers, is significant in the lineage of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospel of Luke (Luke 3:31), highlighting the messianic promise through David's line.

Historical and Theological Significance

While Elishua himself does not play a prominent role in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of David's lineage in the unfolding account of Israel and the eventual coming of the Messiah. The genealogies serve to connect the historical Davidic dynasty with the theological promise of a future king who would establish an everlasting kingdom, as prophesied in 2 Samuel 7:12-16.

The mention of Elishua and his siblings in the biblical text also reflects the broader cultural and historical context of ancient Israel, where family lineage and heritage were crucial for identity and inheritance. The chronicling of David's sons serves to affirm the legitimacy and continuity of his royal line, which was central to Israel's national identity and hope.

Conclusion

Elishua, though not a central figure in the biblical narrative, is part of the rich tapestry of David's family, which holds significant historical and theological implications. His presence in the genealogical records highlights the enduring legacy of David's dynasty and its pivotal role in the biblical account of redemption.2 Samuel 5:15
Ibhar also, and Elishua, and Nepheg, and Japhia,
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 14:5
And Ibhar, and Elishua, and Elpalet,
Nave's Topical Index

474. Elishua -- "God is salvation," a son of David
... Elishua. From 'el and shuwa'; God of supplication (or of riches); Elishua, the son
of King David -- Elishua. see HEBREW 'el. see HEBREW shuwa'. 473, 474. ...
/hebrew/474.htm - 6k

The visitation
... Thus we find a son of David's sometimes called Elishua (God helps') and sometimes
Elishama (God hears'); and Eldea or Eldaa may mean God comes' just as much as ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/ix the visitation.htm

Who are the sons of David mentioned in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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