אֶלֶף

Eleph, a place in Palestine

Definition

Eleph is a proper noun referring to a place in the territory of Benjamin, as listed among the cities allotted to the tribe after the conquest of Canaan (Joshua 18:28). The exact location of this settlement remains uncertain to modern archaeology. The name is identical to the common Hebrew word for 'ox' or 'thousand' (אֶלֶף, H505), but in this single biblical occurrence, it functions solely as a geographical name. No other meanings or senses are attested for this specific proper noun in the biblical text.

Biblical Usage

The word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Joshua 18:28, within a list of cities given to the tribe of Benjamin. It appears in a straightforward geographical and administrative context, with no narrative or descriptive usage beyond its inclusion in this inventory.

Etymology

The name 'Eleph' is derived from the identical common noun אֶלֶף (H505), which primarily means 'ox' or, by extension, 'thousand' (perhaps from the value or strength of an ox). As a place name, it likely originated from a local geographical feature, a clan name, or an association with cattle, though the specific reason for its application is lost.

Semantic Range

As a place name in a tribal allotment list, Eleph reflects the post-conquest organization of the land of Canaan among the Israelite tribes. Its inclusion signifies it was a recognized settlement at the time, contributing to the fulfillment of God's promise of land to the tribe of Benjamin. The cultural practice of naming towns after animals or common objects was not unusual in the ancient Near East.

None applicable for a proper place name.

Word Details

Scripture References