Eli'shu-a, a name meaning "God is salvation," is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament. He is one of the sons of King David, born to him in Jerusalem. The name Eli'shu-a is sometimes rendered as Elishama in other biblical passages, reflecting variations in transliteration and translation over time.

Biblical References:

Eli'shu-a is specifically mentioned in 1 Chronicles 3:6-8, which lists the sons of David born to him in Jerusalem. The passage states: "Ibhar, Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelet—nine in all." This list is part of a genealogical record that highlights the lineage of David, a central figure in the history of Israel and a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14).

In 2 Samuel 5:14-16, a parallel account of David's sons is provided, where Eli'shu-a is again included among the children born to David in Jerusalem. The Berean Standard Bible reads: "These are the names of the children born to him in Jerusalem: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, Ibhar, Elishua, Nepheg, Japhia, Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelet."

Historical and Theological Context:

Eli'shu-a's mention in the genealogies of David underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative. David's sons, including Eli'shu-a, represent the continuation of the Davidic line, which holds significant theological implications. The Davidic covenant, as recorded in 2 Samuel 7, promises that David's throne will be established forever, a prophecy ultimately fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the Son of David in the New Testament (Matthew 1:1).

While Eli'shu-a himself does not play a prominent role in the biblical narrative beyond these genealogical records, his inclusion in the list of David's sons serves to emphasize the fulfillment of God's promises to David. The preservation of these genealogies in Scripture highlights the faithfulness of God in maintaining the line through which the Messiah would come.

Cultural and Linguistic Notes:

The name Eli'shu-a, meaning "God is salvation," reflects a common theme in Hebrew names, where the character and attributes of God are often invoked. This naming convention serves as a reminder of the Israelites' reliance on and relationship with Yahweh, their covenant God.

In some translations and manuscripts, Eli'shu-a is referred to as Elishama, which can lead to some confusion in identifying the exact individuals in the genealogical records. Such variations are not uncommon in ancient texts, where transliteration and translation practices can result in different renderings of the same name.

Conclusion:

Eli'shu-a, though a relatively minor figure in the biblical narrative, is part of the broader tapestry of God's redemptive history as recorded in Scripture. His inclusion in the genealogies of David serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Davidic line and the unfolding of God's salvific plan for humanity.Eli'shu-a (2 Occurrences)

2 Samuel 5:15
and Ibhar, and Elishua, and Nepheg, and Japhia;
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 14:5
and Ibhar, and Elishua, and Elpelet;
(See RSV)

Eli'shu-a (2 Occurrences)
Eli'shu-a. Elishua, Eli'shu-a. Elisimus . Multi-Version Concordance
Eli'shu-a (2 Occurrences). 2 Samuel 5:15 and Ibhar, and Elishua ...
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Elishua (3 Occurrences)

/e/elishua.htm - 7k

Elisimus

/e/elisimus.htm - 6k

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