Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "I-chabod" is derived from the Hebrew "אִי־כָבוֹד" (Ikhavod), which means "no glory" or "the glory has departed." This name is deeply symbolic, reflecting a significant moment of loss and divine judgment in Israel's history. Biblical References: I-chabod is mentioned in the context of a critical event in the history of Israel, specifically in 1 Samuel 4. The narrative describes the capture of the Ark of the Covenant by the Philistines and the subsequent death of Eli, the high priest, and his two sons, Hophni and Phinehas. Upon hearing the news of these calamities, Phinehas' wife, who was pregnant, went into labor and gave birth to a son. As she lay dying, she named the child I-chabod, saying, "The glory has departed from Israel," because the Ark of God had been captured and because of the deaths of her father-in-law and husband (1 Samuel 4:21-22). Historical and Theological Context: The birth of I-chabod occurs during a tumultuous period in Israel's history. The Philistines, a perennial enemy of Israel, had defeated the Israelites in battle and captured the Ark of the Covenant, which was the most sacred object in Israelite worship, symbolizing God's presence among His people. The loss of the Ark was perceived as a catastrophic spiritual and national crisis, indicating that God's favor and glory had departed from Israel due to their disobedience and the corrupt leadership of Eli's sons. Theologically, the name I-chabod serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments. It underscores the importance of faithfulness and the dire repercussions of spiritual neglect and moral decay. The departure of God's glory from Israel was not merely a loss of a physical object but a profound spiritual judgment. Significance in Israel's Narrative: The account of I-chabod is a turning point in the narrative of Israel, highlighting the transition from the period of the judges to the establishment of the monarchy. It sets the stage for the rise of Samuel, the last judge and a pivotal prophet, who would anoint the first kings of Israel, Saul and David. The capture of the Ark and the birth of I-chabod emphasize the need for righteous leadership and the restoration of God's presence among His people. Lessons and Reflections: The account of I-chabod invites reflection on the nature of God's presence and the conditions necessary for His glory to dwell among His people. It challenges believers to examine their own lives and communities for areas of spiritual complacency or disobedience. The account serves as a call to repentance and renewal, encouraging a return to faithful worship and adherence to God's covenant. In summary, I-chabod's name and the circumstances of his birth encapsulate a moment of profound loss and serve as a sobering reminder of the importance of maintaining a right relationship with God. Strong's Hebrew 350. I-kabod -- "inglorious," a son of Phinehas... Word Origin from i and kabod Definition "inglorious," a son of Phinehas NASB Word Usage Ichabod (1), Ichabod's (1). I-chabod. From ... /hebrew/350.htm - 6k Thesaurus I-chabod's (1 Occurrence)I-chabod's. Ichabod's, I-chabod's. Ich'abod's . Multi-Version Concordance ... (WBS). Ichabod's, I-chabod's. Ich'abod's . Reference Bible. /i/i-chabod's.htm - 6k Ichabod's (1 Occurrence) Ich'abod's (1 Occurrence) Ahijah (23 Occurrences) Wore (19 Occurrences) Ich'abod (1 Occurrence) Travail (54 Occurrences) Ahitub (16 Occurrences) Ahiah (5 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance I-chabod's (1 Occurrence)1 Samuel 14:3 Subtopics Related Terms |