אֱלִיאָתָה

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew name ʼĔlîyʼâthâh, represented by H448, means God of (his) consent. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, identifying a specific Israelite who played a role in temple worship.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In the biblical narrative, H448 is found exclusively in the book of 1 Chronicles. Eliathah is listed as one of the fourteen sons of Heman, a chief musician appointed for temple service 1 Chronicles 25:4. His specific role is detailed as the head of the twentieth of twenty-four divisions of musicians, serving with his sons and brethren 1 Chronicles 25:27. This places him within the formal structure of Levitical worship established during the time of King David.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words help clarify the context of Eliathah's identity and role:

• H1968 Hêymân (faithful): Eliathah is identified as a son of Heman 1 Chronicles 25:4, who was the king's seer and a leader of the temple singers 1 Chronicles 25:5. This connection places Eliathah in a prominent lineage of service.
• H1121 bên (a son): This word establishes Eliathah's direct lineage to Heman and also notes that Eliathah had his own sons who served with him 1 Chronicles 25:27. This emphasizes the generational continuity of the Levitical duties.
• H251 ʼâch (a brother): Eliathah's service group included his "brethren" 1 Chronicles 25:27, highlighting the familial and communal nature of the musical service in the house of God.

Theological Significance

The brief mentions of H448 carry significance regarding the structure and nature of worship in ancient Israel.

• Organized Worship: Eliathah's appointment to the twentieth lot demonstrates a highly organized and systematic approach to the musical service in the house of the LORD 1 Chronicles 25:27.
• Familial Dedication: The narrative highlights that these duties were a family affair. Heman, his sons like Eliathah, and his grandsons were all dedicated to service "under the hands of their father for song in the house of the LORD" 1 Chronicles 25:6.
• Divine Appointment: The sons of Heman, including Eliathah, were given to him by God specifically "to lift up the horn," linking their lives and musical abilities directly to a divine gift and calling 1 Chronicles 25:5.

Summary

In summary, H448 is the proper name of a musician from a distinguished Levitical family. Though mentioned only twice, the context surrounding ʼĔlîyʼâthâh provides a clear picture of the dedication, organization, and generational responsibility that characterized the sacred worship in the house of God. His identity is inseparable from his father, Heman, and his designated role within the divinely ordained temple service.