אֶלְיָסָף (el.ya.saph)
el.ya.saph
Eliasaph
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 6 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
Eliasaph is a proper name found exclusively in the Book of Numbers, appearing six times to identify two distinct leaders during the Israelite wilderness journey. The name itself carries the meaning "God has added," a theme that resonates with the context of census-taking and tribal organization.
The first Eliasaph was the son of Jethro and served as the chief of the tribe of Gad (Numbers 1:14). He led his people in the camp arrangement and military counts. A second man with the same name, son of Lael, is listed later as the head of the Gershonite clan within the Levitical division (Numbers 3:24), overseeing the care of the tabernacle's coverings.
While the name shares its etymological root with other biblical figures like Joseph and John, these specific occurrences are tied strictly to administrative roles. The repetition of the name highlights the structured leadership God established for the tribes as they traveled toward the promised land.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Eliasaph means "God has added." In Numbers, this title belongs to two different leaders who guided God’s people through the wilderness. One led the tribe of Gad in military and census matters, while the other oversaw the sacred coverings of the Tabernacle. Their roles show that God cares for both the practical needs of a community and the spiritual care of worship.
When you read these accounts, it is easy to see how ordinary people were given important tasks. Eliasaph did not choose his role; it was assigned by God’s order. This reminds us that our value does not come from our own achievements but from being part of a larger plan. God adds purpose to our lives through the roles we fill, whether they are visible or hidden.
Whether you lead a large group or care for small details, your work matters to Him. The structured life of Israel shows that every person has a place. You are included in this story too. Your contributions, no matter how small they seem, are part of God’s ongoing work among His people.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 6 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Eliasaph4×
- [was] Eliasaph2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אֶלְיָסָ֖ף6×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 1:14
Of Gad: Eliasaph the son of Deuel.
This verse introduces Eliasaph as the leader of Gad during the first census, establishing his role in counting the tribe's fighting men.
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Numbers 3:24
Eliasaph the son of Lael shall be the prince of the fathers’ house of the Gershonites.
Here a second Eliasaph is named prince of the Gershonites, showing how the name was used for leaders responsible for the Tabernacle's coverings.
-
Numbers 7:47
and for the sacrifice of peace offerings, two head of cattle, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year old. This was the offering of Eliasaph the son of Deuel.
This occurrence highlights Eliasaph’s personal offering during the dedication of the altar, linking his leadership to acts of worship and provision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Eliasaph mean?
Is Eliasaph a major biblical figure?
Why are there two men named Eliasaph?
Every Occurrence (6 verses across 1 books)
Numbers 6 verses
Of Gad: Eliasaph the son of Deuel.
Numbers 2:14“The tribe of Gad: the prince of the children of Gad shall be Eliasaph the son of Reuel.
Numbers 3:24Eliasaph the son of Lael shall be the prince of the fathers’ house of the Gershonites.
Numbers 7:42On the sixth day, Eliasaph the son of Deuel, prince of the children of Gad,
Numbers 7:47and for the sacrifice of peace offerings, two head of cattle, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year…
Numbers 10:20Eliasaph the son of Deuel was over the army of the tribe of the children of Gad.