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Elkanah(5)

Elkanah in the Bible — father of Zophai [Zuph_1] (1CH 6:26) and son of Mahath_1 (1CH 6:35). Elkanah belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 3 scripture passages.

Name meaning: “God the zealous; the zeal of God”

Profile

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

Biography

Elkanah is a male member of the tribe of Levi, specifically identified as a Kohathite. He is noted for being the father of Zophai and the son of Mahath, situating him within a Levitical lineage important for priestly duties. His role is grounded in his genealogical placement within the tribe of Levi.

Names & Titles

The name Elkanah means 'G-d [El] has possessed,' reflecting a theologically rich Hebrew proper name. This name is recorded in 1 Chronicles 6:26 and is not indicated as being given directly by God.

Family

Scripture records Elkanah as the father of Zophai and Tohu, as inferred from 1 Chronicles 6:26. Beyond these relationships and his descent from Mahath, no additional family details are provided.

Significance

Elkanah's significance lies in his place within the Levitical priestly genealogy, as a Kohathite, which underscores the continuity of priestly service in Israel. His lineage connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's appointed ministers, highlighting the faithfulness of God's covenant through generations. This genealogical record preserves the heritage of those serving in God's sanctuary.

Names & Labels (1)

Elkanahproper name
Hebrew
אֶלְקָנָה
Transliteration
eləqanah
Meaning
G-d [El] has possessed
Greek
Ελιαβ
Reference
1CH 6:26
Strong's
H511

Family & Relationships (2)

father

Zuph(1CH 6:26)
Tohu(1CH 6:26)

Notes

Kohathite

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Elkanah in the Bible?

Elkanah is a male member of the tribe of Levi, specifically identified as a Kohathite. He is noted for being the father of Zophai and the son of Mahath, situating him within a Levitical lineage important for priestly duties. His role is grounded in his genealogical placement within the tribe of Levi.

What does the name Elkanah mean?

The name Elkanah means “God the zealous; the zeal of God” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.

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