אֵילוֹת

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew word ʼÊylôwth, represented by H359, is the name for Eloth or Elath, a place on the Red Sea. It appears 8 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible. The name itself is derived from a word meaning "trees or a grove (i.e. palms)".

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In the biblical narrative, H359 is identified as a strategic port city. King Solomon established a navy of ships H590 there, located beside Eziongeber on the shore H8193 of the Red sea H3220 in the land H776 of Edom H123 (1 Kings 9:26, 2 Chronicles 8:17). Before this, it was a landmark on the journey of the Israelites as they passed "through the way H1870 of the plain H6160 from Elath" Deuteronomy 2:8. The city's importance is further highlighted by accounts of it being built H1129 and restored H7725 to Judah H3063 (2 Kings 14:22, 2 Chronicles 26:2). However, it was a contested territory, as Rezin H7526 king H4428 of Syria H758 later recovered Elath and drave H5394 the Jews H3064 from it 2 Kings 16:6.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words provide context for the history and location of Elath:

• H123 ʼĔdôm (Edom): Eloth is repeatedly located within the land H776 of Edom (1 Kings 9:26, 2 Chronicles 8:17), establishing its geographical setting as a region associated with the descendants of Esau H6215.
• H1129 bânâh (to build): This word is used to describe the construction and fortification of Elath, an act that restored H7725 it to Judah H3063 (2 Kings 14:22, 2 Chronicles 26:2). It signifies establishment and repair.
• H7725 shûwb (to turn back): This verb is used to describe the changing control of Elath. It was restored to Judah H3063 (2 Kings 14:22, 2 Chronicles 26:2), and later recovered by Syria H758 2 Kings 16:6, highlighting its status as a contested city.

Theological Significance

The significance of H359 is primarily historical and geopolitical, marking a location of strategic importance for the kingdom of Israel.

• Center for Naval Power: Solomon's choice to make a navy of ships H590 at Eloth demonstrates its critical role in Israel's economic and military strategy on the Red sea H3220 1 Kings 9:26.
• Symbol of Territorial Control: The accounts of Elath being built H1129 and restored H7725 to Judah H3063, and later being lost to Syria H758, frame the city as a barometer of the kingdom's strength and its ability to maintain its borders (2 Kings 14:22, 2 Kings 16:6).
• Geographical Landmark: Its mention in Deuteronomy as a point along the Israelites' journey from Seir H8165 anchors its place in the foundational narrative of the nation's travels Deuteronomy 2:8.

Summary

In summary, H359 represents more than just a location; it is a focal point of commerce, construction, and conflict. As Elath or Eloth, this port city on the Red sea H3220 was essential to Solomon's maritime ambitions and a key asset for the kingdom of Judah H3063. Its history of being built, captured, and recaptured underscores its strategic value and illustrates the shifting political landscape of the region.