Elkanah(3)
Elkanah in the Bible — son of Assir (1CH 6:23). Elkanah belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 5 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “God the zealous; the zeal of God”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Levi
- Scripture References
- 5 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 4 connections
Biography
Elkanah was a male Levite of the Kohathite clan, uniquely identified as the son of Assir according to 1 Chronicles 6:23. His lineage places him within the tribe of Levi, known for their priestly and service roles in Israel. This heritage situates Elkanah within the sacred Levitical tradition.
Names & Titles
The name Elkanah means 'G-d has possessed,' reflecting a recognition of divine ownership or blessing. This proper name, recorded in 1 Chronicles 6:23, is not indicated as being given directly by God but carries significant theological meaning within the Hebrew context.
Family
Scripture explicitly records Elkanah as the son of Assir. Additionally, inferred relationships suggest he was the father of Ebiasaph, Amasai, and Ahimoth, all noted in 1 Chronicles 6:23 and 6:25. These connections place him within a generational line important to the Levitical family structure.
Significance
Elkanah's significance lies in his role as a Levite descended from Assir, situating him within the Kohathite branch responsible for specific duties in the tabernacle service. His genealogical mention in 1 Chronicles underscores the importance of preserving the Levitical lineage through whom God’s covenantal worship and priestly functions were maintained. This heritage ultimately points forward to the faithful service and worship that prefigure Christ's priesthood.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- אֶלְקָנָה
- Transliteration
- eləqanah
- Meaning
- G-d [El] has possessed
- Greek
- Ελκανα
- Reference
- 1CH 6:23
- Strong's
- H511
Family & Relationships (4)
son
Notes
Kohathite
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Elkanah in the Bible?
Elkanah was a male Levite of the Kohathite clan, uniquely identified as the son of Assir according to 1 Chronicles 6:23. His lineage places him within the tribe of Levi, known for their priestly and service roles in Israel. This heritage situates Elkanah within the sacred Levitical tradition.
What does the name Elkanah mean?
The name Elkanah means “God the zealous; the zeal of God” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.