Topical Encyclopedia Elah is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the Northern Kingdom of Israel during a tumultuous period marked by political instability and idolatry. He is primarily recognized as the father of Hoshea, the last king of Israel before the Assyrian conquest.Biblical References: Elah is mentioned in 2 Kings 15:30 and 2 Kings 17:1. In 2 Kings 15:30 , it is recorded: "Then Hoshea son of Elah conspired against Pekah son of Remaliah. He attacked and killed him, and reigned in his place in the twentieth year of Jotham son of Uzziah." This passage highlights the political intrigue and violence that characterized the era, with Hoshea ascending to the throne through conspiracy and regicide. In 2 Kings 17:1 , the text states: "In the twelfth year of Ahaz king of Judah, Hoshea son of Elah became king of Israel, and he reigned in Samaria nine years." This verse situates Hoshea's reign within the broader timeline of the divided monarchy, providing a chronological anchor for Elah's familial connection to the last king of Israel. Historical and Theological Context: Elah's significance is largely derived from his son Hoshea's role in the final chapter of the Northern Kingdom's history. Hoshea's reign was marked by a complex interplay of political alliances and rebellion against Assyrian dominance. The biblical narrative suggests that Hoshea's failure to maintain loyalty to Assyria, coupled with his attempt to seek support from Egypt, led to the Assyrian invasion and the eventual fall of Samaria in 722 BC. Theologically, the period of Elah and his son Hoshea is seen as a culmination of Israel's persistent idolatry and disobedience to God's covenant. The prophetic voices of the time, such as Hosea and Amos, had warned of impending judgment due to the nation's spiritual infidelity. The fall of Samaria and the exile of the Israelites are interpreted as divine retribution for their failure to uphold the covenantal relationship with Yahweh. Cultural and Genealogical Insights: While Elah himself is not a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, his mention as the father of Hoshea provides insight into the genealogical and dynastic aspects of Israel's monarchy. The name "Elah" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "terebinth" or "oak," which are symbols of strength and endurance in the ancient Near Eastern context. This nomenclature may reflect cultural values or familial aspirations during a period when names often carried significant meaning. In summary, Elah's legacy is intricately tied to the fate of the Northern Kingdom through his son Hoshea. The biblical account of this era serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from divine commandments and the inevitable downfall that follows persistent rebellion against God's will. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 15:30And Hoshea the son of Elah made a conspiracy against Pekah the son of Remaliah, and smote him, and slew him, and reigned in his stead, in the twentieth year of Jotham the son of Uzziah. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 17:1 Library The Woman of Samaria John iii. 35, 36 Appendices Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Resources Who was King Baasha in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was King Hoshea in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Questions about People in the Bible (All) | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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