### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼĔlîyshâphâṭ**, represented by `{{H478}}`, identifies a specific Israelite. The name means **God of judgment**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, marking a singular but specific role in the scriptural narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Elishaphat** `{{H478}}` is named as one of the captains `{{H8269}}` of hundreds `{{H3967}}` who made a covenant `{{H1285}}` with the priest Jehoiada `{{H3077}}`. This event took place in the seventh `{{H7637}}` year `{{H8141}}`, as Jehoiada `{{H3077}}` strengthened `{{H2388}}` himself. Elishaphat, the son `{{H1121}}` of Zichri `{{H2147}}`, joined with other captains including Azariah `{{H5838}}`, Ishmael `{{H3458}}`, and Maaseiah `{{H4641}}` in this significant political and religious alliance [[2 Chronicles 23:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the sole appearance of Elishaphat:
* `{{H3077}}` **Yᵉhôwyâdâʻ** (Jehovah-known): The priest who initiated the covenant with Elishaphat and the other captains, serving as the central figure in the event [[2 Chronicles 23:1]].
* `{{H1285}}` **bᵉrîyth** (a compact): This defines the formal agreement or pact that Elishaphat entered into with Jehoiada and the other leaders [[2 Chronicles 23:1]].
* `{{H2388}}` **châzaq** (to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong): This word describes Jehoiada's action of strengthening himself, which was the catalyst for gathering Elishaphat and the others to make a covenant [[2 Chronicles 23:1]].
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (a head person (of any rank or class)): This title of "captain" designates the official rank and position of authority held by Elishaphat [[2 Chronicles 23:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H478}}` is understood entirely through the context of its single mention.
* **God of Judgment:** The name **Elishaphat** `{{H478}}` itself means "God of judgment," which aligns with the purpose of the covenant he joined—an act intended to restore order and justice under Jehoiada's leadership [[2 Chronicles 23:1]].
* **Covenantal Allegiance:** Elishaphat's sole appearance shows him entering a sacred covenant `{{H1285}}` with the priest Jehoiada `{{H3077}}`. This highlights the theme of allegiance and the critical role of military leaders uniting with religious authority.
* **Collective Strength:** He is not mentioned alone but as part of a group of captains who were taken `{{H3947}}` by Jehoiada `{{H3077}}`. This emphasizes the concept of strength in unity, as Jehoiada "strengthened himself" `{{H2388}}` by securing the commitment of these key figures [[2 Chronicles 23:1]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʼĔlîyshâphâṭ** `{{H478}}` is the name of an Israelite captain whose contribution is recorded in a single, pivotal moment. While mentioned only once, his participation in Jehoiada's covenant `{{H1285}}` is significant, representing the unified front of military and priestly power. His name, "God of judgment," provides a thematic backdrop to the events surrounding the restoration of rightful leadership in Judah [[2 Chronicles 23:1]].
TRV