Who was Eliphelet in the Bible?

Eliphelet was one of King David's 'mighty men,' a group of elite warriors known for their bravery and loyalty. He is specifically identified as the son of Ahasbai the Maacathite (2 Samuel 23:34).

Why is Eliphelet significant?

His inclusion in the list of David's mighty men signifies his exceptional valor and his crucial role in establishing and protecting David's kingdom. Being named among these warriors highlights his faithfulness and military prowess during a pivotal time in Israel's history.

What else does the Bible say about Eliphelet's life?

The Bible provides no further details about specific events in Eliphelet's life beyond his listing among David's mighty men. His primary significance is his status as a trusted warrior in David's inner circle of fighters.

Eliphelet

Old TestamentUnited MonarchyMaleSon

Eliphelet, son of Ahasbai the Maacathite, was one of David's mighty men (2Sa.23.34).

Eliphelet

Biography

Eliphelet, son of Ahasbai the Maacathite, was counted among David's thirty mighty men, the elite warrior corps celebrated in the appendix of 2 Samuel (2 Sam 23:34). This company of warriors distinguished themselves through extraordinary acts of courage and military skill in defense of David and Israel. The Maacathites were a people from Aram Maacah, a region north of Gilead near the foot of Mount Hermon, indicating that Eliphelet was of non-Israelite origin, a notable feature given the presence of several foreigners among David's mighty men. Though no specific military exploit is attributed to Eliphelet in the text, his inclusion in this honored roster places him among the most celebrated soldiers of the Davidic era.

Significance

Eliphelet's place among David's mighty men (2 Sam 23:34) illustrates the remarkably inclusive nature of David's military and royal circle, which welcomed warriors from various ethnic backgrounds, including Maacathites, Hittites such as Uriah, and others. This diversity within the Davidic kingdom foreshadows the broader scope of God's redemptive purposes, which extend beyond ethnic Israel. The mighty men as a collective also represent loyal service, military valor, and personal sacrifice in advancing God's anointed king. Eliphelet's name, meaning 'God is deliverance,' is fitting for a warrior whose life was spent in the service of Israel's divinely appointed ruler.

Authority Records

Wikidata

FatherDavid

Verse Appearances (1)

2Sam

2Sam 23:34

References

Orr, J. (ed.) (1915) The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. Chicago: Howard-Severance Company. [Public Domain]
Tyndale House, Cambridge (n.d.) Translators Individualised Proper Names with all References (TIPNR). STEPBible. Available at: https://www.stepbible.org. [CC BY 4.0]
Wikidata contributors (n.d.) Wikidata. Available at: https://www.wikidata.org. [CC0]
Church of England (1769) The Holy Bible, Authorized (King James) Version. [Public Domain]

View all sources & licensing →

See our editorial standards →

Content compiled from public domain scholarship, academic sources, and verified references. Editorial standards · View all sources