Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Ele-a'leh" is derived from the Hebrew words "El" meaning "God" and "A'leh" meaning "to ascend" or "to go up." Thus, Ele-a'leh can be interpreted as "God has ascended" or "God is exalted."Biblical References: Ele-a'leh is mentioned in the context of prophetic judgment against Moab in the Old Testament. The primary references to Ele-a'leh are found in the books of Isaiah and Jeremiah. 1. Isaiah 15:4 : "Heshbon and Elealeh cry out; their voices are heard as far away as Jahaz. Therefore the armed men of Moab cry out, and their souls tremble within them." 2. Isaiah 16:9 : "So I weep, as Jazer weeps, for the vines of Sibmah. I drench you with my tears, O Heshbon and Elealeh, for the shouts of joy over your summer fruit and your harvest have fallen silent." 3. Jeremiah 48:34 : "The cry will resound from Heshbon to Elealeh, to Jahaz, from Zoar to Horonaim, and to Eglath-shelishiyah. For even the waters of Nimrim will be dried up." Geographical Context: Ele-a'leh was a town located in the territory of Moab, east of the Jordan River. It was situated near Heshbon, another significant city in Moab. The region was known for its fertile land and vineyards, which are alluded to in the prophetic lamentations over Moab's destruction. Historical Context: During the time of the prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah, Moab was a neighboring nation to Israel and Judah. The Moabites were descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew, and had a complex relationship with the Israelites, marked by periods of both conflict and cooperation. The prophecies concerning Ele-a'leh and Moab reflect a time when Moab faced divine judgment and impending devastation, likely due to their idolatry and opposition to God's people. Theological Significance: The mention of Ele-a'leh in the prophetic books serves as a testament to God's sovereignty and justice. The lamentations over Ele-a'leh and the surrounding cities highlight the consequences of turning away from God and the inevitable judgment that follows. These passages also underscore the compassion of the prophets, who mourn the destruction and loss, even of those who are adversaries to Israel. Cultural and Symbolic Aspects: Ele-a'leh, as part of the Moabite territory, symbolizes the broader theme of God's dealings with the nations surrounding Israel. The cries and lamentations associated with Ele-a'leh reflect the deep sorrow and desolation that accompany divine judgment. The imagery of withered vineyards and silent harvests serves as a powerful metaphor for the loss of prosperity and joy when a nation is estranged from God. Archaeological Insights: While specific archaeological evidence directly identifying Ele-a'leh is limited, the general region of ancient Moab has been the subject of various excavations. These have provided insights into the Moabite culture, economy, and interactions with neighboring peoples, corroborating the biblical narrative of a once-thriving society that faced decline. In summary, Ele-a'leh stands as a poignant reminder of the themes of judgment, repentance, and the hope for restoration that permeate the prophetic literature of the Old Testament. Concordance Ele-a'leh (3 Occurrences)Isaiah 15:4 Isaiah 16:9 Jeremiah 48:34 Thesaurus Ele-a'leh (3 Occurrences)Ele-a'leh. Elea'leh, Ele-a'leh. Eleasa . Multi-Version Concordance Ele-a'leh (3 Occurrences). Isaiah 15:4 And Heshbon crieth out ... /e/ele-a'leh.htm - 7k Elea'leh (2 Occurrences) Eleasa Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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