Eliphelet

Eliphelet is a name that appears multiple times in the Old Testament, associated with different individuals. The name Eliphelet means "God is deliverance" or "God is my deliverance," reflecting a common theme in Hebrew names that emphasize divine intervention and protection.

1. Eliphelet, Son of David: Eliphelet is listed as one of the sons of King David. In 1 Chronicles 3:6, Eliphelet is mentioned among David's sons born in Jerusalem: "Ibhar, Elishama, Eliphelet." This Eliphelet is also mentioned in 1 Chronicles 14:5, where the list of David's sons is repeated. The inclusion of Eliphelet among David's sons highlights the king's numerous offspring and the continuation of his royal lineage.

2. Eliphelet, a Warrior: Another Eliphelet is noted as one of David's mighty warriors. In 2 Samuel 23:34, he is identified as "Eliphelet the son of Ahasbai the Maacathite." This Eliphelet is part of the elite group known as "David's Mighty Men," who were renowned for their bravery and loyalty to the king.

Jeiel

Jeiel is a name that appears in various contexts in the Old Testament, often associated with individuals who played significant roles in the religious and political life of Israel. The name Jeiel means "God sweeps away" or "God gathers."

1. Jeiel, a Musician: In 1 Chronicles 15:18, Jeiel is mentioned as one of the musicians appointed by David to play the lyres in the procession of the Ark of the Covenant: "And with them their brothers of the second rank: Zechariah, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Obed-edom, and Jeiel the gatekeepers." This Jeiel was part of the Levitical order, contributing to the worship and celebration surrounding the Ark.

2. Jeiel, a Scribe: Another Jeiel is noted as a scribe in the service of King Uzziah. In 2 Chronicles 26:11, Jeiel is mentioned as one of the officials who helped organize the army: "Moreover, Uzziah had an army ready for battle, stationed by divisions according to the numbers mustered by Jeiel the scribe and Maaseiah the officer, under the direction of Hananiah, one of the king’s commanders."

Shemaiah

Shemaiah is a name that appears frequently in the Old Testament, associated with prophets, Levites, and other significant figures. The name Shemaiah means "God has heard," indicating a divine response to prayer or need.

1. Shemaiah, the Prophet: One of the most notable figures named Shemaiah is a prophet during the reign of Rehoboam, the son of Solomon. In 1 Kings 12:22-24, Shemaiah receives a word from the LORD instructing Rehoboam not to fight against the northern tribes of Israel: "But the word of God came to Shemaiah the man of God: 'Say to Rehoboam son of Solomon king of Judah and to all the house of Judah and Benjamin and the rest of the people, ‘This is what the LORD says: You are not to march up and fight against your brothers, the Israelites. Each of you must return home, for this is My doing.’” So they listened to the word of the LORD and turned back according to the word of the LORD."

2. Shemaiah, a Levite: Another Shemaiah is mentioned as a Levite involved in the reforms of King Hezekiah. In 2 Chronicles 29:14, Shemaiah is listed among the Levites who helped cleanse the temple: "From the descendants of Heman: Jehiel and Shimei; from the descendants of Jeduthun: Shemaiah and Uzziel."

These individuals named Eliphelet, Jeiel, and Shemaiah, though distinct in their roles and contexts, each contribute to the rich tapestry of Israel's history, reflecting the diverse ways in which God interacted with His people through leaders, warriors, musicians, and prophets.