Who was Elpelet in the Bible?

Elpelet, also called Eliphelet, was one of King David's sons, born to him in Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 3:6; 14:5). He is listed among David's many children, indicating his place in the royal lineage.

What is the significance of Elpelet?

Elpelet's primary significance is his inclusion in the genealogy of King David, which is crucial for establishing the Davidic line. This lineage is important for biblical history and for the messianic prophecies concerning Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:1).

What key events happened in Elpelet's life?

The Bible does not record specific events from Elpelet's life. His mention is limited to genealogical lists that confirm his birth as a son of David in Jerusalem, highlighting his royal heritage (1 Chronicles 3:6-8).

Elpelet

Old TestamentUnited MonarchyMaleSon

Elpelet, also known as Eliphelet, was a son of David born in Jerusalem (1Ch.14.5; 3.6).

Elpelet

Biography

Elpelet, also rendered as Eliphelet in parallel texts, was among the sons born to David in Jerusalem after the king had consolidated his reign over all Israel. The lists in 1 Chronicles 3:6 and 14:5 record him among numerous children born from David's many wives and concubines during the golden era of the United Monarchy. Jerusalem's capture and David's expanding household represented the fulfillment of divine promises, and the birth of many sons symbolized dynastic strength and blessing. Elpelet's name, meaning "God is deliverance," reflects the theological confidence that permeated David's court. Though no individual deeds are attributed to Elpelet in Scripture, his inclusion in the official genealogical register of Davidic descendants places him within the most consequential royal lineage in Israel's history.

Significance

Elpelet's importance lies in his membership within the Davidic royal house, the lineage through which God's covenant with David (2 Samuel 7:12–16) would ultimately be fulfilled. The enumeration of David's sons in Jerusalem signals the establishment of a dynasty rooted in divine promise. Though Elpelet himself does not figure in the succession narrative, the collective witness of David's sons underscores the abundance of God's blessing upon Israel's greatest king. The Davidic line, even in its minor members, points forward to the ultimate heir, Jesus Christ, whose genealogy traces through David (Matthew 1:1), making every branch of that royal family part of the grand redemptive story.

Verse Appearances (2)

1Chr

1Chr 3:6 1Chr 14:5

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]

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