### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼĔlîyʼêl**, represented by `{{H447}}`, means **God of (his) God**. It appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible and is the name given to nine different Israelites. The name itself is a declaration of faith, combining the Hebrew word for God, אֵל, twice.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H447}}` is used to identify several individuals in positions of leadership and service, primarily within the genealogies and historical records of the book of Chronicles. The name is associated with both military and spiritual roles. One Eliel is listed as a **chief** `{{H8269}}` among the **sons** `{{H1121}}` of **Hebron** `{{H2275}}`, commanding eighty of his **brethren** `{{H251}}` [[1 Chronicles 15:9]]. Another served as an **overseer** `{{H6496}}` during the reign of King **Hezekiah** `{{H3169}}` [[2 Chronicles 31:13]]. The name is also connected to David's mighty men, with different individuals named Eliel being described as **mighty** `{{H1368}}` **men** `{{H582}}` of **valour** `{{H2428}}` ([[1 Chronicles 5:24]], [[1 Chronicles 11:46]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help contextualize the roles of the individuals named Eliel:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word is essential for understanding the genealogical lists where Eliel is mentioned. For example, one Eliel is identified as the **son** `{{H1121}}` of **Toah** `{{H8430}}` in a Levitical lineage [[1 Chronicles 6:34]].
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (mighty): This term describes powerful warriors or men of valor. The name Eliel is connected to the **mighty** `{{H1368}}` **men** `{{H582}}` who were heads of their father's house [[1 Chronicles 5:24]] and warriors in David's army [[1 Chronicles 12:11]].
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (chief): Denoting a leader or head person, this title is applied to an Eliel who was a **chief** `{{H8269}}` of the Levites from the family of Hebron [[1 Chronicles 15:9]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H447}}` is found in its meaning and the character of those who bore the name.
* **Theophoric Declaration:** The name itself, "God of (his) God," is a confession of faith. It signifies that the God of Israel is the ultimate God, a personal and authoritative deity in the life of the individual.
* **Leadership and Service:** The individuals named Eliel are consistently portrayed in positions of responsibility, whether as Levites, military chiefs, or clan leaders. They are among those **called** `{{H7121}}` by **David** `{{H1732}}` for sacred duties [[1 Chronicles 15:11]] and trusted as **overseers** `{{H6496}}` of the **house** `{{H1004}}` of **God** `{{H430}}` [[2 Chronicles 31:13]].
* **Valour and Fame:** Multiple men named Eliel were recognized for their strength and renown. They are listed as **famous** `{{H8034}}` **men** `{{H582}}` and heads of their clans, reflecting a legacy of influence and honor within Israel [[1 Chronicles 5:24]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʼĔlîyʼêl** `{{H447}}` is more than just a name; it is a statement of identity and faith. Though its occurrences are limited, the name is consistently linked to Israelites who held positions of spiritual authority, civic leadership, and military strength. Through these individuals, the name "God of (his) God" is associated with a life of service, valor, and prominence in the history of Israel.
TRV