The Hebrew name ʼĔlîytsûwr, represented by H468, means "God of (the) rock". It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. This name identifies a specific Israelite leader, Elizur, from the tribe of Reuben.
In the biblical narrative, H468 is consistently identified as Elizur, the son of Shedeur H7707 from the tribe of Reuben H7205. He is chosen as one of the men H582 to stand H5975 with Moses Numbers 1:5. His role is one of leadership; he is named as the captain H5387 of the children of Reuben, whose camp H4264 was positioned on the south side H8486 Numbers 2:10. When the tribes set forward, Elizur was over the host H6635 of the camp of Reuben Numbers 10:18. He also participated in the offerings as a prince H5387 of his tribe, presenting his offering on the fourth H7243 day H3117 Numbers 7:30.
Several related words clarify the context of Elizur's role and identity:
- H7707 Shᵉdêyʼûwr (Shedeur): Defined as "spreader of light," this is the name H8034 of Elizur's father, establishing his lineage Numbers 1:5.
- H7205 Rᵉʼûwbên (Reuben): Meaning "see ye a son," this identifies the tribe from which Elizur came, situating him within the larger structure of Israel Numbers 2:10.
- H5387 nâsîyʼ (prince): This title, meaning "an exalted one, i.e. a king or sheik," is used to describe Elizur's position of authority over the children of Reuben Numbers 7:30.
- H1714 degel (standard): Defined as "a flag; banner, standard," this term is associated with the division of the camp of Reuben that Elizur commanded (Numbers 2:10, Numbers 10:18).
The role of H468 Elizur highlights several important principles within the early history of Israel.
- Appointed Leadership: Elizur was not self-appointed but was named as one of the men H582 to stand H5975 with the leaders of Israel, signifying a structured and divinely sanctioned authority Numbers 1:5.
- Tribal Representation: As a prince H5387 of the children of Reuben H7205, he acted as a representative for his entire tribe, particularly in bringing a specific offering H7133 for the dedication Numbers 7:30.
- Order in the Camp: His position as captain H5387 over the host H6635 under the standard H1714 of Reuben demonstrates the high degree of organization required for the nation's journey, with each tribe having a designated leader and place Numbers 10:18.
- Contribution to Worship: The detailed account of his sacrifice H2077 of peace offerings H8002—including two H8147 oxen H1241, five H2568 rams H352, and five H2568 he goats H6260—underscores the unified participation of all tribes in worship Numbers 7:35.
In summary, H468 ʼĔlîytsûwr is not just a name but represents a figure of significant responsibility in the nascent nation of Israel. His name, meaning "God of (the) rock," is attached to a man chosen as a captain H5387 and prince H5387 of the tribe of Reuben H7205 Numbers 2:10. Through his roles in organizing the camp H4264 and presenting offerings, Elizur exemplifies the themes of appointed leadership, tribal order, and collective worship that were foundational to Israel's journey.
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