### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek proper noun Ἐσλί (Eslí), Strong's number `{{G2069}}`, serves primarily as a transliteration of a Hebrew name. The base definition indicates its probable origin from the Hebrew אֶלְיְהוֹעֵינַי (Elihoenai), which means "My God is my eyes" or "Unto Jehovah are my eyes." This etymological root combines elements related to God (אֵל, *El*, or יְהוָה, *Yahweh*) and the concept of "eyes" (עַיִן, *ayin*). As a proper noun, Esli's semantic range is limited to identifying a specific individual within a genealogical context, rather than conveying a broader conceptual meaning. Its significance lies in its referential function within the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Esli appears only once in the New Testament, specifically within the meticulously recorded genealogy of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke. In [[Luke 3:25]], Esli is listed as the son of Naggai and the father of Nahum, tracing the lineage of Joseph (the legal father of Jesus) back towards Adam. Luke's genealogy is distinct from Matthew's in several ways, notably in its backward progression from Jesus to Adam, emphasizing Jesus' connection to all humanity, not solely to the Abrahamic covenant. Esli's inclusion as a link in this extensive chain underscores the historical rootedness and human ancestry of the Messiah. His presence affirms the continuity of generations leading to the Christ, demonstrating the meticulous divine oversight of human history and lineage.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the Hebrew name אֶלְיְהוֹעֵינַי (Elihoenai), from which Ἐσλί (Eslí) is likely derived. This Hebrew name is composed of elements such as אֵל (El, `{{H410}}`, God) or יְהוָה (Yahweh, `{{H3068}}`, the LORD) and עַיִן (ayin, `{{H5869}}`, eye/fountain). This connection highlights a potential theological undertone for the individual, suggesting a life characterized by divine perception or reliance upon God's watchful care. Conceptually, Esli is intrinsically linked to "genealogy" (γενεαλογία, *genealogia*), "lineage," and "ancestry," particularly in the context of "Messianic descent." His position within Luke's list connects him to other figures in the human history leading to Christ, such as Melchi, Levi, Matthat, and ultimately, David and Adam.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Esli, like other names in the Lucan genealogy, lies primarily in his role as a vital link in the divinely ordained lineage of Jesus Christ. His inclusion affirms the full humanity of Jesus, demonstrating that the Son of God entered human history through a concrete, traceable ancestry. Luke's genealogy, by extending back to Adam, emphasizes Jesus' universal redemptive mission, connecting Him not just to the covenant people of Israel but to all of humanity. Esli's presence is a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving a line through which the promised Messiah would come. While the etymological meaning of his name ("My God is my eyes" or "Unto Jehovah are my eyes") is not explicitly drawn out in the text, it subtly reinforces the theme of divine providence and the continuous gaze of God upon His chosen lineage, guiding it towards the ultimate fulfillment in Christ.
### Summary
Esli (Ἐσλί, `{{G2069}}`) is a Greek proper noun, a transliteration of a Hebrew name likely meaning "My God is my eyes." It appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Luke 3:25]], where it functions as a single link in the extensive human genealogy of Jesus Christ. Esli's inclusion underscores the historical reality and full humanity of Jesus, connecting Him to a specific lineage that extends back to Adam, thereby emphasizing His universal significance as the Redeemer of all humanity. While the name itself offers no narrative details about the individual, its etymological root subtly points to a life under divine observation or one reliant on God's vision. Ultimately, Esli's significance is found in his indispensable role within the meticulously preserved ancestry leading to the Messiah.
TRV