Topical Encyclopedia Eli-e'nai, a name found within the genealogical records of the Old Testament, is a figure whose mention is brief yet significant in the context of Israel's history. The name Eli-e'nai is understood to mean "God is my eyes" or "unto God are my eyes," reflecting a theocentric focus that is characteristic of many Hebrew names.Biblical References: 1. 1 Chronicles 3:24 : Eli-e'nai is listed as a descendant of David, specifically as one of the sons of Neariah, who was a descendant of Shemaiah, a son of Shecaniah. The verse states: "The sons of Elioenai: Hodaviah, Eliashib, Pelaiah, Akkub, Johanan, Delaiah, and Anani—seven in all." This genealogical record places Eli-e'nai within the post-exilic community, highlighting the continuity of David's line even after the Babylonian exile. 2. Ezra 10:22 : Eli-e'nai is also mentioned among the sons of Pashhur who had taken foreign wives, an action contrary to the Law of Moses. The verse reads: "From the descendants of Pashhur: Elioenai, Maaseiah, Ishmael, Nethanel, Jozabad, and Elasah." This context is part of the larger narrative where Ezra leads a reform to ensure the purity of the Israelite community by encouraging those who had intermarried with foreign women to put away their wives and children. Historical and Theological Context: Eli-e'nai's mention in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles underscores the chronicler's intent to trace the Davidic line and affirm God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. The chronicler's genealogies serve not only as historical records but also as theological affirmations of God's ongoing relationship with His people, despite their periods of unfaithfulness and exile. In the book of Ezra, Eli-e'nai's involvement in the issue of intermarriage highlights a critical moment in Israel's post-exilic restoration. The returnees from Babylon faced the challenge of re-establishing their identity as God's chosen people, distinct from the surrounding nations. The reform led by Ezra was a call to holiness and a return to the covenantal laws given to Moses. Eli-e'nai's inclusion in this narrative serves as a reminder of the personal and communal struggles faced by the Israelites in maintaining their distinctiveness and faithfulness to God. Significance: Eli-e'nai's presence in these records, though brief, contributes to the broader narrative of Israel's history and the theological themes of covenant, identity, and restoration. His name, meaning "God is my eyes," may symbolize the hope and reliance on divine guidance that characterized the post-exilic community's efforts to rebuild and renew their commitment to God. Through figures like Eli-e'nai, the biblical text weaves together the personal and communal aspects of faith, underscoring the importance of obedience and trust in God's promises. Concordance Eli-e'nai (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 8:20 Thesaurus Eli-e'nai (1 Occurrence)Eli-e'nai. Elienai, Eli-e'nai. Eliezar . Multi-Version Concordance Eli-e'nai (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 8:20 and Elienai, and Zillethai, and Eliel; (See ... /e/eli-e'nai.htm - 6k Elienai (1 Occurrence) Eliezar (2 Occurrences) Resources Who was Eli in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Samuel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Hannah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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