### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼElpaʻal**, represented by `{{H508}}`, is a proper name meaning **God (is) act**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The name itself is a declaration of faith, identifying God as a being of action and purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H508}}` appears exclusively within the genealogies of the tribe of Benjamin. Its use is to establish lineage and identify a specific Israelite. Elpaal is first introduced as a son of Hushim [[1 Chronicles 8:11]]. The text then names his own descendants, including Eber, Misham, Shamed [[1 Chronicles 8:12]], as well as Ishmerai, Jezliah, and Jobab [[1 Chronicles 8:18]], situating him firmly within the family records of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the genealogical context of Elpaal:
* `{{H36}}` **ʼĂbîyṭûwb** (Abitub): This name, meaning "father of goodness," refers to the brother of Elpaal, both of whom were begotten by Hushim [[1 Chronicles 8:11]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word is essential to the verses where Elpaal is mentioned, used to identify both Elpaal as a son and to list "the **sons** of Elpaal" ([[1 Chronicles 8:12]], [[1 Chronicles 8:18]]). It signifies the building of a family name.
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to beget): This root word establishes the direct paternal link, stating that Hushim **begat** Abitub and Elpaal, signifying the act of bringing forth children and showing lineage [[1 Chronicles 8:11]].
### Theological Significance
Though used only as a name, the theological weight of `{{H508}}` is found in its meaning.
* **A Name as a Declaration:** The name Elpaal, "God (is) act," serves as a personal and generational statement of faith in the active and purposeful nature of God.
* **Genealogical Significance:** By embedding this name within the official lineage of Benjamin, the narrative shows that a belief in God's active involvement in the world was part of the heritage passed down through families.
* **Reflection of God's Character:** The name itself points to a core tenet of Israelite faith: that God is not a distant, passive deity, but one who acts in history and accomplishes His will.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H508}}` is more than just a name in a list. While its biblical usage is confined to the genealogies of 1 Chronicles, its meaning—"God (is) act"—provides a concise theological statement. It demonstrates how personal names in the Old Testament could serve as expressions of faith, carrying declarations about God's character from one generation to the next.
TRV