Topical Encyclopedia Meaning and Etymology: The name "Ichabod" is derived from the Hebrew phrase "אִי־כָבוֹד" (I-khavod), 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: Ichabod is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of 1 Samuel. The primary reference to Ichabod is found in 1 Samuel 4:19-22. The context of his birth is a time of national crisis for Israel. Historical Context: Ichabod was born during a tumultuous period when the Philistines defeated the Israelites in battle and captured the Ark of the Covenant, a sacred symbol of God's presence with His people. This event marked a profound spiritual and national calamity for Israel. Family Background: Ichabod was the son of Phinehas, one of the two sons of Eli, the high priest. Phinehas and his brother Hophni were known for their corrupt practices and disregard for the Lord's commandments, which ultimately led to divine judgment upon Eli's house (1 Samuel 2:12-17, 27-36). Birth and Naming: The birth of Ichabod is recorded in 1 Samuel 4:19-22. Upon hearing the news of the Ark's capture and the deaths of her husband Phinehas and father-in-law Eli, Phinehas's wife went into labor and gave birth to a son. In her dying moments, she named the child Ichabod, saying, "The glory has departed from Israel," because the Ark of God had been captured and because of the deaths of her husband and father-in-law. The Berean Standard Bible records her words: "She named the boy Ichabod, saying, 'The glory has departed from Israel,' because the ark of God had been captured and because of her father-in-law and her husband" (1 Samuel 4:21). Theological Significance: The name Ichabod serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the loss of God's presence due to sin. The capture of the Ark symbolized a departure of divine favor and protection, highlighting the seriousness of Israel's spiritual decline. The narrative underscores the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant and the dire repercussions of neglecting His commands. Legacy: While Ichabod himself does not play a significant role in subsequent biblical narratives, his name and the circumstances of his birth are emblematic of a critical moment in Israel's history. The account of Ichabod serves as a somber warning and a call to repentance, urging God's people to seek His presence and glory through obedience and reverence. 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 Library A Liberal Education: and Where to Find It. Christian Names. The Tears of Christ. A Solemn Warning for all Churches Religious Zeal. The Seventh Commandment The Eclipse and Rediscovery of the Old Testament The War of Truth A Sermon for the Time Present Letter Lxvi. To Pammachius. Thesaurus Ichabod (2 Occurrences)... In her great distress she regarded not "the women that stood by her," but named the child that was born "Ichabod" ie, no glory, saying, "The glory is departed ... /i/ichabod.htm - 8k I-chabod (2 Occurrences) I-chabod's (1 Occurrence) Ichabod's (1 Occurrence) Phinehas (24 Occurrences) Ich'abod (1 Occurrence) Ich'abod's (1 Occurrence) Ahitub (16 Occurrences) Ahijah (23 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance I-chabod (2 Occurrences)1 Samuel 4:21 1 Samuel 14:3 Subtopics I-Chabod: Son of Phinehas, and Grandson of Eli Related Terms |