1 Chronicles 11:47
Eliel, Obed, and Jaasiel the Mezobaite.
Eliel
The name "Eliel" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "My God is God." This name reflects a deep-seated faith and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. In the context of 1 Chronicles, Eliel is listed among David's mighty warriors, indicating his valor and dedication. The name itself serves as a reminder of the centrality of God in the lives of those who serve Him, emphasizing the importance of recognizing God's ultimate authority and power in all endeavors.

Jeribai
The name "Jeribai" is less common in the biblical text, and its exact meaning is not entirely clear. However, it is believed to be derived from Hebrew roots that suggest contention or strife. This could imply that Jeribai was a warrior who faced and overcame significant challenges or adversities. His inclusion in the list of David's mighty men highlights the theme of perseverance and the overcoming of obstacles through faith and courage.

Joshaviah
"Joshaviah" is another name that appears infrequently in the Scriptures. It is thought to mean "Yahweh makes equal" or "Yahweh levels." This name suggests a divine balancing or equalizing force, perhaps indicating that Joshaviah was someone who brought justice or fairness in his actions. His presence among the mighty men underscores the biblical principle that God is a God of justice, and those who follow Him are called to reflect His just nature in their lives.

the sons of Elnaam
The phrase "the sons of Elnaam" indicates a familial connection, suggesting that Elnaam was a notable figure whose lineage produced mighty warriors. The name "Elnaam" means "God is pleasantness" or "God is delight," which may reflect the character or reputation of this family. This highlights the biblical theme of legacy and the impact of a godly heritage, encouraging believers to consider the spiritual inheritance they leave for future generations.

Ithmah the Moabite
"Ithmah" is a name that means "orphan" or "desolation," which might reflect a humble or challenging beginning. The designation "the Moabite" is significant, as it indicates Ithmah's foreign origin. Moabites were often seen as outsiders or enemies of Israel, yet Ithmah's inclusion among David's mighty men illustrates the inclusivity of God's kingdom. It serves as a powerful reminder that God's grace extends beyond ethnic and cultural boundaries, welcoming all who are willing to serve Him with faithfulness and courage.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Eliel
A warrior listed among David's mighty men. His name means "My God is God," reflecting a strong spiritual heritage.

2. Obed
Another of David's mighty men. The name Obed means "servant" or "worshiper," indicating a life dedicated to service and devotion.

3. Jaasiel the Mezobaite
A lesser-known figure among David's warriors. The term "Mezobaite" likely refers to his place of origin or a family designation, though specific details are sparse.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Legacy
The names and roles of these men remind us of the importance of leaving a legacy of faith and service. Our actions and character can impact generations.

Faithfulness in the Background
Not all of David's mighty men are well-known, yet their contributions were vital. This teaches us that God values faithfulness, even in roles that may seem insignificant.

The Power of Names
In biblical times, names held significant meaning. Reflect on the meaning of your own name and how it might inspire you to live out your faith.

Unity in Diversity
The diversity among David's mighty men shows that God uses people from various backgrounds and skills to accomplish His purposes. Embrace the unique gifts and backgrounds within your community.
Bible Study Questions
1. How can the legacy of David's mighty men inspire us to live lives of faith and courage today?

2. In what ways can we be faithful in the "background" roles we might have in our church or community?

3. Reflect on the meaning of your own name. How might it inspire you to live out your faith more fully?

4. How can we encourage unity and appreciation for diversity within our church, similar to the diverse group of David's mighty men?

5. What other biblical figures can you think of whose names had significant meanings, and how did those meanings reflect their lives or missions?
Connections to Other Scriptures
David's Mighty Men
This passage is part of a larger list of David's mighty men, which is also found in 2 Samuel 23. These men were renowned for their bravery and loyalty to King David, serving as a model of faithfulness and courage.

Names and Meanings
The significance of names in the Bible often reflects character or destiny. For example, the name "Eliel" can be connected to other biblical figures whose names emphasize God's sovereignty.
The Moral of the Mighty MenW. Clarkson 1 Chronicles 11:10-14, 20-47
People
Abiel, Abiezer, Abishai, Adina, Ahiam, Ahijah, Ahlai, Anathoth, Ariel, Asahel, Azmaveth, Baanah, Benaiah, Benjamin, Benjaminites, David, Dodai, Dodo, Eleazar, Elhanan, Eliahba, Eliel, Eliphal, Elnaam, Ezbai, Gareb, Hachmoni, Haggeri, Hanan, Hashem, Heled, Helez, Hepher, Hezro, Hotham, Hothan, Hurai, Ikkesh, Ilai, Ira, Israelites, Ithai, Ithmah, Ittai, Jaasiel, Jashobeam, Jasiel, Jebusites, Jediael, Jehiel, Jehoiada, Jeiel, Jeribai, Joab, Joel, Joha, Jonathan, Joshaphat, Joshaviah, Maacah, Maachah, Maharai, Mibhar, Moabites, Naarai, Naharai, Nathan, Obed, Reubenites, Ribai, Sacar, Samuel, Saul, Shage, Shama, Shammoth, Shimri, Shiza, Sibbecai, Sibbechai, Uriah, Uzzia, Zabad, Zelek, Zeruiah
Places
Adullam, Anathoth, Baharum, Beeroth, Bethlehem, Carmel, Gaash, Gibeah, Harod, Hebron, Jebus, Jerusalem, Kabzeel, Millo, Moab, Netophah, Pas-dammim, Pirathon, Tekoa, Valley of Rephaim, Zion
Topics
Eliel, Eli'el, Jaasiel, Ja-asi'el, Jasiel, Mesobaite, Mezobaite, Mezo'ba-ite, Obed
Dictionary of Bible Themes
1 Chronicles 11:10-47

     5544   soldiers

1 Chronicles 11:23-47

     5087   David, reign of

Library
The Story of a Cup of Water
BY THEODORE T. MUNGER [From "Lamps and Paths," by courtesy of Houghton, Mifflin & Co.] Be noble! and the nobleness that lies In other men, sleeping, but never dead, Will rise in majesty to meet thine own. --James Russell Lowell: Sonnet IV Restore to God his due in tithe and time: A tithe purloined cankers the whole estate. Sundays observe: think, when the bells do chime, 'Tis angels' music; therefore come not late. God there deals blessings. If a king did so, Who would not haste, nay give, to see
Philip P. Wells—Bible Stories and Religious Classics

Some Buildings in Acra. Bezeiha. Millo.
Mount Sion did not thrust itself so far eastward as mount Acra: and hence it is, that mount Moriah is said, by Josephus, to be "situate over-against Acra," rather than over-against the Upper City: for, describing Acra thus, which we produced before, "There is another hill, called Acra, which bears the Lower City upon it, steep on both sides": in the next words he subjoins this, "Over-against this was a third hill," speaking of Moriah. The same author thus describes the burning of the Lower City:
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica

Epistle cxxii. To Rechared, King of the visigoths .
To Rechared, King of the Visigoths [82] . Gregory to Rechared, &c. I cannot express in words, most excellent son, how much I am delighted with thy work and thy life. For on hearing of the power of a new miracle in our days, to wit that the whole nation of the Goths has through thy Excellency been brought over from the error of Arian heresy to the firmness of a right faith, one is disposed to exclaim with the prophet, This is the change wrought by the right hand of the Most High (Ps. lxxvi. 11 [83]
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

Epistle Xlv. To Theoctista, Patrician .
To Theoctista, Patrician [153] . Gregory to Theoctista, &c. We ought to give great thanks to Almighty God, that our most pious and most benignant Emperors have near them kinsfolk of their race, whose life and conversation is such as to give us all great joy. Hence too we should continually pray for these our lords, that their life, with that of all who belong to them, may by the protection of heavenly grace be preserved through long and tranquil times. I have to inform you, however, that I have
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

Chronicles
The comparative indifference with which Chronicles is regarded in modern times by all but professional scholars seems to have been shared by the ancient Jewish church. Though written by the same hand as wrote Ezra-Nehemiah, and forming, together with these books, a continuous history of Judah, it is placed after them in the Hebrew Bible, of which it forms the concluding book; and this no doubt points to the fact that it attained canonical distinction later than they. Nor is this unnatural. The book
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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