The Hebrew name ʼEldâʻâh, represented by H420, means God of knowledge. It appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible. This name is used exclusively to identify a specific individual within a genealogical listing.
The name Eldaah H420 appears in two parallel genealogical accounts. In both Genesis and 1 Chronicles, he is listed as one of the sons of Midian H4080. These passages establish his place as a grandson of Abraham through his wife Keturah H6989. The full lineage is presented as: "And the sons of Midian; Ephah, and Epher, and Hanoch, and Abida, and Eldaah" (Genesis 25:4, 1 Chronicles 1:33).
Several related words help place Eldaah within his family structure:
- H4080 Midyân: This is the name of Eldaah's father, Midian, who was a son of Abraham. The name also refers to his country and descendants Genesis 25:4.
- H28 ʼĂbîydâʻ: The name of Eldaah's brother, Abida, which means "father of knowledge." He is listed immediately before Eldaah in the genealogies (Genesis 25:4, 1 Chronicles 1:33).
- H6989 Qᵉṭûwrâh: The name of Abraham's wife Keturah, who is identified as the mother of the line from which Eldaah descends (Genesis 25:4, 1 Chronicles 1:33).
While Eldaah is not a central figure, his name carries conceptual significance:
- Thematic Naming: The name ʼEldâʻâh H420 literally means "God of knowledge." This is significant as he is listed directly after his brother Abida H28, whose name means "father of knowledge" Genesis 25:4. This pairing suggests a deliberate emphasis on the theme of knowledge within this branch of the family.
- Genealogical Identity: The primary function of the name in scripture is to establish a specific lineage descending from Abraham through Midian. His inclusion in both Genesis and 1 Chronicles solidifies his place in the historical record of Abraham's descendants.
In summary, H420 ʼEldâʻâh is a Hebrew personal name used to identify a son of Midian. Although his appearances are confined to two genealogical lists, his name's meaning, "God of knowledge," provides a layer of depth. When viewed alongside his brother Abida ("father of knowledge"), it highlights how even minor figures in biblical genealogies can bear names of thematic importance, preserving concepts within the family line of Abraham.
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