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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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