The Hebrew word ʼEltôwlad, represented by H513, is the name for a place in Palestine. Its name is derived from a combination of words meaning God (is) generator. This name appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, establishing its identity as a specific location within the biblical landscape.
In the biblical narrative, H513 is used exclusively as a geographical marker. It is mentioned in the book of Joshua as one of several cities being listed. In its first appearance, it is grouped with Chesil and Hormah Joshua 15:30. Its second appearance lists it alongside Bethul and Hormah, reinforcing its status as a distinct town or settlement in the region Joshua 19:4.
Several other place names are mentioned in direct connection with ʼEltôwlad:
- H3686 Kᵉçîyl: Defined as "Kesil, a place in Palestine; Chesil," this location is listed alongside Eltolad in the context of Joshua's descriptions of the land Joshua 15:30.
- H1329 Bᵉthûwl: Meaning "Bethul (i.e. Bethuel), a place in Palestine; Bethuel," it appears with Eltolad in a different list of cities Joshua 19:4.
- H2767 Chormâh: A place name meaning "devoted," Hormah is consistently mentioned with Eltolad in both of its biblical appearances, suggesting a close geographical relationship (Joshua 15:30; Joshua 19:4).
The significance of H513 is primarily derived from its name and its function in the text.
- Theological Name: The name ʼEltôwlad itself, meaning "God (is) generator," carries theological weight, attributing the source of generation or life to God.
- Geographical Marker: Within the biblical text, its role is to identify a specific place in Palestine. It functions as part of a list, helping to define territorial boundaries and settlements.
- Contextual Association: It is consistently associated with the city of H2767 Chormâh, appearing with it in every mention. This repeated pairing highlights their connection in the geographical layout described in Joshua.
In summary, H513 ʼEltôwlad is a specific place name whose significance is twofold. While its direct narrative role is limited to being a geographical point in lists of cities, its etymological meaning of "God (is) generator" offers a glimpse into the faith of those who named it. Its appearances in scripture serve to map out the land of Palestine as recorded in the book of Joshua.
TRV