Elnathan
Elnathan in the Bible — from Jerusalem, father of Nehushta (2KI 24:8), an official (JER 36:12). Referenced in 3 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “God hath given; the gift of God”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Scripture References
- 3 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 2 connections
Biography
Elnathan was a male official from Jerusalem known in the biblical record primarily as the father of Nehushta. His role as an official is noted in the book of Jeremiah, indicating his involvement in the administrative affairs of Jerusalem during a critical period. There is no specific tribal affiliation or additional personal notes recorded about him.
Names & Titles
The name Elnathan means 'G-d [El] is given,' reflecting a theophoric element common in Hebrew names that acknowledges divine provision. This proper name, while not indicated as given directly by God, reveals a recognition of God's gift or blessing inherent in his identity.
Family
Scripture records Elnathan as the father of Nehushta, as noted in 2 Kings 24:8, and explicitly as the father of Achbor in Jeremiah 26:22. These relationships place him as a patriarch within a family connected to Jerusalem's official circles, though no further family details are provided.
Significance
Elnathan's significance lies in his position as an official in Jerusalem during a tumultuous era, likely involved in the governance and events leading up to or during the Babylonian crisis. His familial connections to Nehushta and Achbor link him to key figures mentioned in the biblical narrative, underscoring his role within the socio-political framework of Judah. While not a central character, his mention situates him within the historical and prophetic context of Jeremiah and Kings.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- אֶלְנָתָן
- Transliteration
- elənatan
- Meaning
- G-d [El] is given
- Greek
- Ελλαναθαν
- Reference
- 2KI 24:8
- Strong's
- H494
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Elnathan in the Bible?
Elnathan was a male official from Jerusalem known in the biblical record primarily as the father of Nehushta. His role as an official is noted in the book of Jeremiah, indicating his involvement in the administrative affairs of Jerusalem during a critical period. There is no specific tribal affiliation or additional personal notes recorded about him.
What does the name Elnathan mean?
The name Elnathan means “God hath given; the gift of God” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.