1 Chronicles 14:7

Elishama, Beeliada, and Eliphelet.

Study Bible

Elishama
The name "Elishama" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "God has heard." This name reflects a deep-seated belief in the responsiveness of God to the prayers and cries of His people. In the context of 1 Chronicles, Elishama is one of the sons of King David, indicating the blessings and favor that God bestowed upon David's lineage. The name itself serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God is attentive and responsive to His chosen people. Historically, names carried significant weight in Hebrew culture, often reflecting the character or destiny of the individual. Elishama's name would have been a constant reminder of God's faithfulness and attentiveness.

Beeliada
This name is intriguing as it combines "Baal," a term often associated with false gods, with "yada," meaning "to know" in Hebrew. However, in this context, "Baal" can also mean "lord" or "master," and thus "Beeliada" can be interpreted as "The Lord knows." This name underscores the omniscience of God, who is aware of all things and intimately knows His creation. In the historical context of Israel, where the worship of Baal was a recurring temptation, the name Beeliada could serve as a declaration of allegiance to the true Lord, Yahweh, who knows and sees all. It is a testament to the importance of acknowledging God's sovereignty and knowledge in the life of a believer.

Eliphelet
The name "Eliphelet" means "God is deliverance" or "God is my deliverance." This name encapsulates a core theme of the biblical narrative: God's power to save and deliver His people from their enemies and trials. Eliphelet, as a son of David, would have been a living testament to the deliverance that God provided to David throughout his life, from his battles with Goliath to his conflicts with Saul. Theologically, this name points to the ultimate deliverance that God provides through Jesus Christ, the descendant of David, who delivers humanity from sin and death. In the broader scriptural context, the name Eliphelet serves as a reminder of the hope and salvation that God offers to all who trust in Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elishama
One of the sons of King David, whose name means "God has heard." This name reflects a common theme in the Bible of God hearing and responding to the prayers and needs of His people.

2. Beeliada
Another son of David, also known as Eliada in some translations. The name Beeliada means "Baal knows," which is interesting given the later negative connotations of Baal worship in Israel. It may reflect a cultural context or a different understanding of the name at the time.

3. Eliphelet
Also a son of David, whose name means "God is deliverance." This name underscores the belief in God's power to save and deliver His people.

4. David
The king of Israel, a central figure in the Old Testament known for his heart for God, his military conquests, and his role in establishing Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of Israel.

5. Jerusalem
The city where David reigned and where he established his family. It holds significant historical and theological importance as the city of David and later as the site of the Temple.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Names
In biblical times, names often carried significant meaning and reflected the character or destiny of a person. Reflect on the names given to David's sons and consider the importance of names and identity in your own life.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
The birth of David's sons in Jerusalem is a testament to God's faithfulness in establishing David's line, which ultimately leads to the birth of Jesus Christ. Trust in God's promises and His timing in your life.

Cultural Context and Understanding
The name Beeliada may seem unusual given the later negative associations with Baal. This highlights the importance of understanding the cultural and historical context of biblical events and names.

Legacy and Influence
David's legacy is not only in his military and political achievements but also in his family. Consider the legacy you are building and the influence you have on future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. What significance do the names of David's sons hold, and how can understanding their meanings deepen our understanding of God's character?

2. How does the account of David's family in Jerusalem reflect God's faithfulness to His covenant promises?

3. In what ways can we see the importance of understanding cultural and historical context when studying the Bible, particularly in the case of names like Beeliada?

4. How does the legacy of David's family encourage us to think about the legacy we are leaving for future generations?

5. How can we apply the lessons from David's life and family to our own lives, particularly in terms of trusting God's promises and timing?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 5:14-16
This passage provides a parallel account of David's sons born in Jerusalem, offering additional context and details about David's family.

1 Chronicles 3:5-9
Lists the sons of David born to him in Jerusalem, providing a broader genealogical context and showing the continuity of David's lineage.

Psalm 127:3-5
Speaks to the blessing of children as a heritage from the Lord, which can be related to David's numerous offspring and the significance of his family in God's plan.