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Eliab(3)

Eliab in the Bible — firstborn (1CH 2:13) son of Jesse (1SA 16:6) brother of David. Eliab belonged to the tribe of Judah. Referenced in 3 scripture passages.

Name meaning: God is my father; God is the father

Profile

Gender
male
Tribe
Judah
Scripture References
3 references
Known Names
1 name
Relationships
2 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

Presented to Samuel but rejected(1 Samuel 16:6-7)
Rebuked David at Goliath battle(1 Samuel 17:28)

Names & Labels (1)

Eliabproper name
Hebrew
אֱלִיאָב
Transliteration
eliyav
Meaning
G-d [El] is [my] father
Greek
Ελιαβ
Reference
1SA 16:6
Strong's
H446

Family & Relationships (2)

son

Jesse(1SA 16:6)

father

Abihail(2CH 11:18)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Eliab in the Bible?

Eliab is described in the Bible as firstborn (1CH 2:13) son of Jesse (1SA 16:6) brother of David. Eliab belonged to the tribe of Judah.

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.

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