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Eliab(4)

Eliab in the Bible — third among the Gadites to go to David (1CH 12:9). Eliab belonged to the tribe of Gad. Referenced in 2 scripture passages.

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

Profile

Gender
male
Tribe
Gad
Scripture References
2 references
Known Names
1 name
Relationships
1 connection

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
אֱלִיאָ֖ב
Transliteration
eliyav
Meaning
G-d [El] is [my] father
Greek
Ελιαβ
Reference
1CH 12:9
Strong's
H446

Family & Relationships (1)

descendant

Gad(1CH 12:9)

Notes

came to David at Ziklag (1CH 12:1)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Eliab in the Bible?

Eliab is described in the Bible as third among the Gadites to go to David (1CH 12:9). Eliab belonged to the tribe of Gad.

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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