Jeroham is a biblical figure mentioned in several genealogies within the Old Testament. His name, meaning "may he be compassionate" or "cherished," appears in various contexts, often associated with the tribe of Levi or Benjamin. In 1 Chronicles 6:27, Jeroham is listed as an ancestor of Samuel, the prophet and last judge of Israel. This lineage is significant as it establishes Samuel's Levitical heritage, underscoring his role in religious leadership.

Another Jeroham is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 12:7 as a Benjamite warrior who joined David at Ziklag, demonstrating loyalty during a time of political upheaval. Additionally, in 2 Chronicles 23:1, a Jeroham is noted as the father of Azariah, one of the captains who supported Jehoiada in overthrowing Queen Athaliah, highlighting his family's involvement in pivotal moments of Judah's history.

Elihu

Elihu is a name that appears in various contexts within the Old Testament, often signifying "He is my God" or "God is He." One notable Elihu is found in the Book of Job, where he is introduced as the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the family of Ram (Job 32:2). Elihu's speeches, spanning Job 32-37, offer a unique perspective on suffering and divine justice. Unlike Job's other friends, Elihu emphasizes God's greatness and the inscrutability of His ways, preparing the narrative for God's direct response to Job.

Another Elihu is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 12:20 as a Manassite who defected to David at Ziklag, indicating his support for David's kingship. This Elihu's allegiance to David during a time of conflict underscores the broader theme of divine providence in establishing David's rule.

Tohu

Tohu is a lesser-known biblical figure, primarily recognized as an ancestor of Samuel. In 1 Samuel 1:1, Tohu is listed in the genealogy of Elkanah, Samuel's father, as "Tohu, the son of Zuph." This lineage is significant as it traces Samuel's heritage back to the Ephraimite hill country, emphasizing his connection to the land and people he would later lead as a prophet and judge.

The name Tohu, meaning "lowly" or "humble," reflects the humble beginnings from which Samuel arose, highlighting the biblical theme of God raising leaders from unexpected places. Tohu's mention in the genealogy serves to establish the historical and familial context for Samuel's significant role in Israel's history.

Zuph

Zuph is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of 1 Samuel 1:1, where he is identified as an ancestor of Elkanah, the father of Samuel. The name Zuph, meaning "honeycomb" or "overflowing," is associated with the region of Zuph, a district in the territory of Ephraim. This connection to the land is significant, as it situates Samuel's family within the broader narrative of Israel's tribal divisions and territorial inheritances.

Zuph's mention in the genealogy underscores the importance of familial and tribal identities in the biblical narrative, providing a backdrop for Samuel's emergence as a pivotal leader in Israel. The reference to Zuph also highlights the continuity of God's covenantal promises through generations, as Samuel's prophetic ministry would play a crucial role in guiding Israel during a time of transition from judges to monarchy.