The Hebrew name ʼĔlîydâd, represented by H449, means God of (his) love. This name appears only 1 time in the Bible, identifying a specific Israelite. While the individual is mentioned only briefly, his name and lineage place him within the important context of Israel's tribal structure.
The single appearance of ʼĔlîydâd occurs in a list of leaders appointed from the tribes of Israel. He is identified as the representative for his tribe in Numbers 34:21, which states, "Of the tribe of Benjamin, Elidad the son of Chislon." This places him in a position of responsibility among his people during a foundational moment for the nation.
The verse that mentions ʼĔlîydâd connects him to several key relational and structural terms:
- H1144 Binyâmîyn (Benjamin): This identifies the tribe from which ʼĔlîydâd hails. The word means "son of (the) right hand" and refers to the tribe descended from Jacob's youngest son Numbers 34:21.
- H1121 bên (son): This establishes his direct lineage as "the son of Chislon." The term is foundational for understanding family names and relationships in the biblical text Numbers 34:21.
- H3692 Kiçlôwn (Chislon): The name of his father, meaning "hopeful." This further defines his identity within the patriarchal line of his family Numbers 34:21.
- H4294 maṭṭeh (tribe): This word, which can also mean a rod or staff, is used here to denote a tribe, signifying a major branch of the Israelite people Numbers 34:21.
While ʼĔlîydâd is not a major theological figure, his mention carries significance through his name and role.
- Theology in a Name: The name ʼĔlîydâd ("God of his love") is a declaration of faith, embedding the concept of God's love into a personal identity.
- Tribal Order: His selection as a representative for the tribe H4294 of Benjamin H1144 underscores the divine ordering of Israel's community and the importance of each tribe having a place within the whole.
- Family Heritage: Being named as the son H1121 of Chislon H3692 reinforces the biblical value placed on lineage and the continuity of family from one generation to the next.
In summary, ʼĔlîydâd H449 provides an example of how even a minor figure, mentioned only once, contributes to the biblical narrative. His name carries the theological weight of divine love, and his context in Numbers 34:21 highlights the importance of tribal identity, family lineage, and structured leadership within the nation of Israel.
TRV