אֶלְפַּ֫עַל (el.pa.al)
el.pa.al
Elpaal
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
Elpaal is a proper name found in the genealogies of Benjamin, appearing three times in the Hebrew Bible. The sources identify him as a man living during the period of the Divided Monarchy, specifically noted as the son of Shaharaim and Hushim in 1 Chronicles 8:11. His name translates to "God is maker" or "God of doing," reflecting a common pattern in Israelite naming where divine agency is acknowledged.
He is listed among the brothers of Jobab, Zibia, Mesha, and others, establishing his place within the tribal structure of Benjamin. The records further detail that he was the father of eleven sons, including Eber, Misham, Shemed, and Beriah. These genealogical entries serve to preserve the lineage of the tribe, connecting Elpaal to a large family network that persisted through the historical shifts of ancient Israel.
The occurrence of this name is restricted to these specific verses in Chronicles, highlighting its role in maintaining tribal identity rather than in narrative action. The etymology links the divine element "El" with the root for making or doing, emphasizing creation or craftsmanship. This linguistic detail provides a glimpse into how personal names functioned as theological statements within the community.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Names in Scripture often carry deep theological weight, serving as quiet reminders of God’s active role in our lives. Elpaal, meaning “God is maker,” appears in the genealogies of Benjamin, linking a specific family line to the broader story of Israel. This name suggests that even in ordinary family records, the community recognized divine craftsmanship and purpose in their existence.
While Elpaal himself does not perform dramatic acts in the narrative, his listing among the sons of Shaharaim highlights the value of lineage and identity. His children are noted for building Ono and Lod, showing how faith translates into practical, communal work. These records preserve the memory of families who contributed to the stability and growth of their society.
For readers today, this word invites reflection on how our own lives and families fit into God’s larger plan. Just as Elpaal’s name acknowledged God as the maker, we can trust that our daily efforts and relationships are held within a purposeful design. The preservation of these names reminds us that every life has significance in the eyes of God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Elpaal3×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אֶלְפָּֽעַל\׃2×
- אֶלְפַּ֔עַל1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 8:11
By Hushim, he became the father of Abitub and Elpaal.
This verse establishes Elpaal’s origin as the son of Hushim, anchoring his identity within the tribal structure of Benjamin.
-
I Chronicles 8:12
The sons of Elpaal: Eber, Misham, and Shemed, who built Ono and Lod, with its towns;
Here, Elpaal’s sons are credited with building Ono and Lod, illustrating how the family contributed to the physical development of their towns.
-
I Chronicles 8:18
Ishmerai, Izliah, Jobab, the sons of Elpaal,
This occurrence lists additional sons of Elpaal, reinforcing the size and continuity of his family line within the tribe.