### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼElyâçâph**, represented by `{{H460}}`, means "God (is) gatherer." It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** and is the name given to two distinct Israelite leaders during the wilderness period. The name signifies a role of bringing people together under divine authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the name **ʼElyâçâph** is assigned to two individuals with significant leadership roles. The first is Eliasaph, son of Deuel `{{H1845}}`, who is also identified as the son of Reuel `{{H7467}}`. He was a leader from the tribe of Gad `{{H1410}}`, serving as a **captain** `{{H5387}}` of his tribe [[Numbers 2:14]] and the leader of its **host** `{{H6635}}` [[Numbers 10:20]]. He is also listed as the **prince** `{{H5387}}` of the children of Gad who presented an offering on the sixth day `{{H8345}}` for the dedication of the altar [[Numbers 7:42]]. The second individual is Eliasaph, son of Lael `{{H3815}}`, who was appointed as the **chief** `{{H5387}}` of the Levitical family of the **Gershonites** `{{H1649}}` [[Numbers 3:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the roles held by these men:
* `{{H5387}}` **nâsîyʼ** (prince, chief): This title is used for both men named Eliasaph, designating their positions as exalted leaders chosen to represent their respective groups, whether a tribe or a Levitical family ([[Numbers 3:24]], [[Numbers 7:42]]).
* `{{H4294}}` **maṭṭeh** (tribe): This word clarifies the jurisdiction of Eliasaph, son of Deuel, who was a leader over the **tribe** of Gad `{{H1410}}` [[Numbers 2:14]].
* `{{H1649}}` **Gêrᵉshunnîy** (Gershonite): This patronym identifies the specific Levitical clan led by Eliasaph, son of Lael, highlighting his authority within the priestly service structure [[Numbers 3:24]].
* `{{H7133}}` **qorbân** (offering): This term describes the sacrificial present brought by Eliasaph of Gad, which included **oxen** `{{H1241}}`, **rams** `{{H352}}`, and **lambs** `{{H3532}}` as part of his duties as a tribal leader [[Numbers 7:47]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of **ʼElyâçâph** is demonstrated through the specific duties assigned to these leaders:
* **Tribal Representation:** Eliasaph, son of Deuel, acted as the designated leader for the tribe of Gad in both the census and military arrangement of Israel ([[Numbers 1:14]], [[Numbers 10:20]]). His role was crucial for the organization and order of the nation.
* **Levitical Administration:** Eliasaph, son of Lael, held a hereditary leadership position as the **chief** `{{H5387}}` of the house of the father of the **Gershonites** `{{H1649}}`, overseeing one of the primary Levitical families responsible for the Tabernacle [[Numbers 3:24]].
* **Sanctuary Dedication:** As a tribal **prince** `{{H5387}}`, Eliasaph of Gad participated directly in the dedication of the altar by bringing a substantial **sacrifice** `{{H2077}}` of **peace offerings** `{{H8002}}`, affirming his tribe's commitment to the worship of God [[Numbers 7:47]].
### Summary
In summary, the name **ʼElyâçâph** `{{H460}}` is tied to leadership and organization within early Israel. Though appearing only a few times, it is associated with two key figures: a military and civil **captain** `{{H5387}}` of the tribe of Gad and an administrative **chief** `{{H5387}}` of the Gershonite Levites. Both men, in their distinct roles, embody the name's meaning of "God (is) gatherer" by organizing and leading their people in service to God.
TRV