### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼĔlîyshebaʻ**, represented by `{{H472}}`, means **God of (the) oath**. Despite appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, this name belongs to a pivotal figure in the history of Israel. Her identity is central to the establishment of the Aaronic priesthood.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole mention of `{{H472}}` is in the genealogy of Aaron. In [[Exodus 6:23]], the text states that **Aaron** `{{H175}}` **took** `{{H3947}}` **Elisheba** to be his **wife** `{{H802}}`. This passage establishes her as the matriarch of the priestly line, identifying her as the **daughter** `{{H1323}}` of Amminadab and the **sister** `{{H269}}` of Naashon. The verse concludes by noting that she **bare** `{{H3205}}` him his four sons: **Nadab** `{{H5070}}`, **Abihu** `{{H30}}`, **Eleazar** `{{H499}}`, and **Ithamar** `{{H385}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential for understanding the context of Elisheba's role:
* `{{H175}}` **ʼAhărôwn** (Aaron): Elisheba is defined by her marriage to Aaron, the brother of Moses. Aaron and his sons were separated to minister in the priest's office [[Exodus 28:1]].
* `{{H802}}` **ʼishshâh** (wife): This word establishes her legal and familial connection to Aaron, making her the mother of his heirs [[Exodus 6:23]]. It is a term used broadly for a woman or wife throughout scripture [[Genesis 2:24]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to bear young): This primitive root confirms her role as the one who gave birth to the first generation of priests. It is used to show lineage throughout the Old Testament [[Genesis 5:22]].
* `{{H499}}` **ʼElʻâzâr** (Eleazar): One of Elisheba's sons, whose name means "God (is) helper." He, along with his brother Ithamar, continued the priesthood after Nadab and Abihu died [[Numbers 3:4]].
* `{{H5992}}` **ʻAmmîynâdâb** (Amminadab): Elisheba's father, connecting her to a prominent family from the tribe of Judah [[Numbers 1:7]].
### Theological Significance
While mentioned only once, the significance of `{{H472}}` is tied to the foundation of Israel's worship system.
* **Matriarch of the Priesthood:** As the wife of **Aaron** `{{H175}}`, Elisheba is the mother of the entire Aaronic priesthood. Her sons were the first to be consecrated for service in the tabernacle [[Exodus 28:1]].
* **A Covenantal Name:** The name **ʼĔlîyshebaʻ** itself, meaning "God of (the) oath," points to the covenantal nature of the priesthood that would descend from her.
* **Establishment of a Holy Lineage:** By bearing Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar, she is the human source of the priestly line that was tasked with making atonement for the people and ministering before the Lord [[Exodus 6:23]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʼĔlîyshebaʻ** `{{H472}}` is a name of great importance despite its single appearance. Her identity as the wife of Aaron and mother to his sons places her at the very beginning of the Israelite priesthood. Her name, "God of (the) oath," and her foundational role in the lineage of the priests underscore her significance in the unfolding narrative of God's covenant with Israel.
TRV