### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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