### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼElʻâsâh**, represented by `{{H501}}`, means **God has made**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible and is the name given to four distinct Israelites. The name itself is a declaration of divine creation and sovereignty, often found within genealogical lists that trace the lineage of God's people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name is found primarily in genealogical records and historical narratives. One prominent individual named Elasah was the son of Shaphan, whom Zedekiah, king of Judah, sent as a messenger to Nebuchadnezzar in Babylon [[Jeremiah 29:3]]. Another Elasah is listed among the sons of Pashur who appeared before Ezra [[Ezra 10:22]]. In the books of Chronicles, the name, also spelled Eleasah, appears in lineages, identifying him as the son of Helez [[1 Chronicles 2:39]], the father of Sisamai [[1 Chronicles 2:40]], and as a descendant of Moza in a genealogy recorded twice ([[1 Chronicles 8:37]], [[1 Chronicles 9:43]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help place **ʼElʻâsâh** in its biblical context:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word is fundamental to understanding the context of Elasah, who is consistently identified by his parentage, such as "the **son** of Shaphan" [[Jeremiah 29:3]] or as part of a list of "the **sons** of Pashur" [[Ezra 10:22]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to beget): This verb forms the structure of the genealogies where Eleasah is found. It establishes direct lineage, as when Moza **begat** Binea in the line leading to Eleasah [[1 Chronicles 9:43]], and when Eleasah himself **begat** Sisamai [[1 Chronicles 2:40]].
* `{{H1587}}` **Gᵉmaryâh** (Gemariah): This individual, whose name means "Jah has perfected," was sent to Babylon alongside Elasah by King Zedekiah [[Jeremiah 29:3]]. His inclusion highlights the specific historical mission Elasah was a part of.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H501}}` is primarily expressed through its literal meaning and the roles of the men who carried the name.
* **Declaration of Divine Creation:** The name itself is a direct theological statement that "God has made." It affirms that each individual, including the four men named Elasah, is a product of God's creative act.
* **Purpose in History:** The account of Elasah, son of Shaphan, demonstrates that God places individuals He has "made" into specific historical contexts for His purposes. He was entrusted to carry a message from King Zedekiah to the exiles in Babylon during a pivotal moment in Israel's history [[Jeremiah 29:3]].
* **Continuity of Lineage:** The repeated inclusion of Eleasah in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles underscores the biblical value of heritage and the unfolding of God's plan through generations. Each person is a link "made by God" in the chain of their family and tribe ([[1 Chronicles 2:40]], [[1 Chronicles 8:37]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H501}}` is more than just a name; it is a confession of faith. Meaning "God has made," the name belongs to four Israelites who are noted in scripture for their place in Israel's lineage and, in one case, for a specific task as a royal messenger. Through their simple mentions in genealogies and historical accounts, the name **ʼElʻâsâh** serves as a consistent reminder of God's sovereign hand in creating and placing each person within the larger, unfolding story of His people.
TRV