The Hebrew name ʼElʻâdâh, represented by H497, means God has decked. This name appears only 1 time in the Bible, within a single verse. Its sole function is to identify a specific Israelite, Eladah, placing him within a particular family line.
The single biblical occurrence of H497 is found in the genealogical records of the tribe of Ephraim. Eladah is listed as a descendant of Ephraim, specifically as the son of Tahath and part of a lineage that includes Shuthelah and Bered. This mention in 1 Chronicles 7:20 serves to establish his place within the tribal history of Israel.
Several related words appear alongside Eladah, defining his ancestral context:
- H669 ʼEphrayim (double fruit; Ephrajim, a son of Joseph; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory): This is the tribe to which Eladah belongs, establishing his identity as a descendant of Joseph 1 Chronicles 7:20.
- H1121 bên (a son): This term is used repeatedly in the passage to define the generational relationships within the family line, identifying Eladah and others as a son in the lineage of Ephraim 1 Chronicles 7:20.
- H8480 Tachath (Tachath, the name of a place in the Desert, also of three Israelites): This is the name given for both the father and a descendant of Eladah, highlighting the continuity of names within a family line 1 Chronicles 7:20.
- H7803 Shûwthelach (crash of breakage; Shuthelach, the name of two Israelites): This name identifies an ancestor in Eladah's line, connecting him back to the earlier generations of Ephraim 1 Chronicles 7:20.
While the name Eladah is mentioned only once, its context carries theological weight.
- Theophoric Naming: The name itself, meaning "God has decked," is a declaration of faith. It reflects a belief that God is the source of blessing, honor, and adornment in a person's life.
- Genealogical Preservation: Eladah's inclusion in the official lineage of Ephraim underscores the biblical importance of ancestry. These records were vital for affirming tribal identity, inheritance rights, and the fulfillment of covenant promises to the patriarchs.
- Divine Faithfulness: The meticulous recording of generations, including individuals like Eladah, serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving the tribes of Israel, particularly the line of Ephraim, a significant tribe in Israel's history Jeremiah 31:9.
In summary, H497 is a personal name, ʼElʻâdâh, whose significance is derived entirely from its singular context. While the man himself is not a major figure, his name—meaning "God has decked"—and his placement within the genealogy of Ephraim 1 Chronicles 7:20 contribute to the broader scriptural themes of divine blessing, covenant preservation, and the importance of every individual within the family of God's people.
TRV