Eliab(2)
Eliab in the Bible — father of Dathan and Abiram from the tribe of Reuben (NUM 16:1). Eliab belonged to the tribe of Reuben. Referenced in 6 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “God is my father; God is the father”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Reuben
- Scripture References
- 6 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 5 connections
Biography
The firstborn son of Jesse and oldest brother of David. When Samuel came to Jesse's house to anoint a king, Eliab's impressive appearance made Samuel think he was the chosen one, but God rejected him. Later, Eliab angrily accused David of presumption when David came to the battle against Goliath.
Significance
Eliab's rejection teaches that God looks on the heart, not outward appearance, and that being firstborn or most impressive does not guarantee God's selection.
Key Events
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- אֱלִיאָ֛ב
- Transliteration
- eliyav
- Meaning
- G-d [El] is [my] father
- Greek
- Ελιαβ
- Reference
- NUM 16:1
- Strong's
- H446
Notes
Not the same person as mentioned in NUM 1:9 (from Zebulun). This Eliab is from Reuben (NUM 16:1).
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Eliab in the Bible?
Eliab is described in the Bible as father of Dathan and Abiram from the tribe of Reuben (NUM 16:1). Eliab belonged to the tribe of Reuben.
What does the name Eliab mean?
The name Eliab means “God is my father; God is the father” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.