Elimelech
Elimelech in the Bible — husband of Naomi (RUT 1:2). Elimelech belonged to the tribe of Judah. Referenced in 4 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “my God is king”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Judah
- Scripture References
- 4 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 3 connections
Biography
Elimelech was a male member of the tribe of Judah, known primarily as the husband of Naomi. His role is noted in the book of Ruth, where his family experiences significant hardship. Beyond his marital relationship, no additional personal notes are recorded.
Names & Titles
The name Elimelech means 'G-d is my king,' reflecting a theocentric identity. This proper name is not indicated as given directly by God but carries a strong declaration of divine sovereignty.
Family
Elimelech was married to Naomi and was the father of Mahlon and Chilion. These relationships are inferred from the scriptural reference in Ruth 1:2, providing a basic family structure important to the narrative.
Significance
Elimelech's significance in Scripture lies in his role as the patriarch of a family that faced famine and relocation, setting the stage for the unfolding story of redemption in Ruth. His position as Naomi's husband and father to Mahlon and Chilion connects him to the lineage and providential themes central to the biblical account. Though details about his life are limited, his family circumstances contribute to the broader redemptive history.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- אֱֽלִימֶ֡לֶךְ
- Transliteration
- eliymelekh
- Meaning
- G-d [El] is [my] king
- Greek
- Αβιμελεχ
- Reference
- RUT 1:2
- Strong's
- H458
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Elimelech in the Bible?
Elimelech was a male member of the tribe of Judah, known primarily as the husband of Naomi. His role is noted in the book of Ruth, where his family experiences significant hardship. Beyond his marital relationship, no additional personal notes are recorded.
What does the name Elimelech mean?
The name Elimelech means “my God is king” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.