Eliud is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. His name appears in the lineage that traces the legal ancestry of Jesus through Joseph, His earthly father. Eliud is part of the genealogy that establishes Jesus' rightful claim to the throne of David, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's lineage.

Biblical Reference:

Eliud is mentioned specifically in the New Testament in the Gospel of Matthew. The passage reads:

"After the exile to Babylon: Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, Abiud the father of Eliakim, Eliakim the father of Azor, Azor the father of Zadok, Zadok the father of Achim, Achim the father of Eliud, Eliud the father of Eleazar, Eleazar the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ." (Matthew 1:12-16)

Genealogical Significance:

Eliud's place in the genealogy is significant as it connects the post-exilic Jewish community to the coming of the Messiah. The genealogy in Matthew is structured to highlight Jesus' legal right to the Davidic throne, emphasizing His role as the promised King. Eliud is part of the line that bridges the gap between the Old Testament promises and their New Testament fulfillment in Christ.

Historical Context:

The genealogy in Matthew is divided into three sets of fourteen generations, symbolically representing completeness and divine order. Eliud is situated in the third set, which spans from the Babylonian exile to the birth of Jesus. This period was marked by the Jewish people's longing for deliverance and restoration, themes that are ultimately realized in the coming of Jesus.

Theological Implications:

Eliud's inclusion in the genealogy underscores the faithfulness of God in preserving the line through which the Savior would come. Despite the challenges and disruptions faced by the Jewish people, including the Babylonian exile, God's sovereign plan remained intact. The genealogy serves as a testament to God's providence and the unfolding of His redemptive purposes through history.

Name Meaning and Etymology:

The name Eliud is of Hebrew origin, and while its exact meaning is not definitively known, it is often associated with the idea of "God is my praise" or "God is my strength." Names in biblical genealogies often carry theological significance, reflecting the character and attributes of God.

Conclusion:

Eliud, though a relatively obscure figure, plays a crucial role in the biblical narrative by being part of the lineage that leads to Jesus Christ. His mention in the genealogy of Matthew highlights the continuity of God's covenant promises and the fulfillment of prophecy through the birth of the Messiah.Matthew 1:14,15
And Azor begat Sadoc; and Sadoc begat Achim; and Achim begat Eliud;
Nave's Topical Index

The Flight into Egypt and St. John the Baptist in the Desert
... Jesus said nothing of this to His parents, why I do not know, whether from humility
or because the angel ... His father had one brother who was Abraham's ancestor. ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/xvi the flight into egypt.htm

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