Eli'athah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the Levites. His name appears in the context of the musical service established by King David for the worship in the temple. The name Eli'athah is understood to mean "God has come" or "God is coming," reflecting a theophoric element common in Hebrew names, which often incorporate the name of God (El).

Biblical References:

Eli'athah is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 25:4, where he is listed among the sons of Heman. Heman was one of the three chief musicians appointed by King David to oversee the music in the house of the Lord. The verse reads: "From the sons of Heman: Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shubael, Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, Romamti-ezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, and Mahazioth."

Role and Significance:

Eli'athah, as a descendant of Heman, was part of a significant Levitical family dedicated to the musical ministry in the temple. The Levites were a tribe set apart for religious duties, and music played a crucial role in the worship practices of ancient Israel. The appointment of Eli'athah and his brothers to this service underscores the importance of music in the spiritual life of the nation and the organized structure that King David implemented to ensure continuous worship.

The mention of Eli'athah in the genealogical and service records highlights the continuity of worship practices and the hereditary nature of Levitical duties. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's involvement in the lives of His people, as seen in the meaning of Eli'athah's name.

Cultural and Theological Context:

In the cultural context of ancient Israel, names were often given with the hope of reflecting the character or destiny of the individual. Eli'athah's name, meaning "God has come," may suggest a prophetic or aspirational element, indicating the presence and intervention of God in the lives of His people. This aligns with the theological understanding of God's immanence and His active role in guiding and sustaining Israel.

Theologically, the inclusion of Eli'athah in the list of temple musicians serves as a reminder of the importance of worship and the arts in expressing devotion to God. Music, as a form of worship, is seen as a means to glorify God and to lead the congregation in praise and adoration.

Conclusion:

While Eli'athah is not a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the genealogical records of the Levites underscores the importance of each individual's contribution to the collective worship of God. His role as a musician in the temple service reflects the organized and communal nature of worship in ancient Israel, as well as the enduring legacy of the Levitical priesthood in facilitating the spiritual life of the nation.Eli'athah (2 Occurrences)

1 Chronicles 25:4
Of Heman: the sons of Heman: Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shebuel, and Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, and Romamti-ezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, Mahazioth;
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 25:27
For the twentieth to Eliathah, his sons and his brethren, twelve;
(See RSV)

Eli'athah (2 Occurrences)
Eli'athah. Eliathah, Eli'athah. Eliazar . Multi-Version Concordance
Eli'athah (2 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 25:4 Of Heman: the sons ...
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Eliathah (2 Occurrences)
... ELIATHAH. e-li'-a-tha ('eli'-athah, "God has come"): A Hemanite, head of the twentieth
division of the temple musicians (1 Chronicles 25:4, 27). ...
/e/eliathah.htm - 7k

Eliazar (1 Occurrence)

/e/eliazar.htm - 6k

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