### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼĔlîyhûw**, represented by `{{H453}}`, means **"God of him"**. It is derived from the words for God (`אֵל`) and "him" (`הוּא`). This name appears **11 times** in **11 unique verses** and is used to identify several individuals in the Old Testament, most notably one of the friends of Job.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H453}}` identifies several distinct individuals. The most prominent is **Elihu**, the son of Barachel, who appears in the book of Job. His **wrath** `{{H639}}` was **kindled** `{{H2734}}` against Job and his three friends because he believed Job "justified himself rather than God" ([[Job 32:2]], [[Job 32:5]]). He waits to speak out of respect for his elders [[Job 32:4]], stating "I am young, and ye are very old" [[Job 32:6]], before delivering a series of discourses ([[Job 34:1]], [[Job 35:1]], [[Job 36:1]]). The name also appears in genealogies, such as in the lineage of Samuel's father [[1 Samuel 1:1]], and identifies a brother of David [[1 Chronicles 27:18]]. Other men named Elihu include a captain of Manasseh who joined David [[1 Chronicles 12:20]] and a strong man listed among the sons of Shemaiah [[1 Chronicles 26:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the narratives involving individuals named **Elihu**:
* `{{H347}}` **ʼÎyôwb** (Job): This is the name of the patriarch to whom Elihu speaks. Elihu’s speeches are a direct response to **Job** and his friends ([[Job 32:2]], [[Job 32:4]]).
* `{{H639}}` **ʼaph** (wrath): This word, which can mean nose or anger, is used to describe Elihu’s emotional state. His **wrath** was kindled against both Job and his companions ([[Job 32:2]], [[Job 32:5]]).
* `{{H2734}}` **chârâh** (to be kindled, burn): This verb describes the action of Elihu's anger. The text states his wrath "was **kindled**" ([[Job 32:2]], [[Job 32:5]]), a term used to describe the blazing up of anger or zeal.
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{H453}}` is primarily concentrated in the book of Job, though other figures with this name contribute to its significance.
* **A Pivotal Voice in Debate:** In the story of Job, Elihu enters the conversation after the other speakers have failed. He is presented as a younger man whose **wrath** `{{H639}}` is **kindled** `{{H2734}}` by what he perceives as Job's self-righteousness and the friends' inability to refute him ([[Job 32:2]], [[Job 32:5]]). His speeches serve as a bridge, offering a different perspective before God himself **answered** `{{H6030}}` Job [[Job 38:1]].
* **Representation in Lineage:** The name appears in the genealogy of Samuel's father, Elkanah [[1 Samuel 1:1]], indicating its presence in an important family line. Another Elihu is identified as one of David's brethren, holding a position of authority over Judah [[1 Chronicles 27:18]].
* **Association with Strength and Leadership:** Figures named Elihu are also noted for their roles as leaders. One was a captain of the thousands of Manasseh who joined David [[1 Chronicles 12:20]], and another is listed among "strong men" in the family of Shemaiah [[1 Chronicles 26:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H453}}` **ʼĔlîyhûw** is a personal name meaning "God of him," used for several individuals in the Old Testament. While found in significant genealogies and leadership lists ([[1 Samuel 1:1]], [[1 Chronicles 12:20]]), its most detailed portrayal is that of Job's younger friend. This Elihu is characterized by his zealous **wrath** `{{H639}}`, which is **kindled** `{{H2734}}` in defense of God's justice [[Job 32:2]]. His role as a distinct voice in the theological debate of Job solidifies the name's association with passionate conviction and a unique place in biblical discourse.
TRV