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.
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).
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.
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).
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.
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