Eliphelet

Eliphelet is a masculine name found in the English Bible, derived from the Hebrew name 'Elifelet. It means "my God is deliverance", combining the elements ʾel meaning "God" and palaṭ meaning "to deliver, to rescue". In the Old Testament, several individuals bear this name, notably one of the sons of King David (2 Samuel 5:16; 1 Chronicles 3:8), highlighting its ancient biblical roots. The name is a theophoric expression of trust in divine salvation.

Etymology

The Hebrew origin of Eliphelet reflects a common pattern in Semitic names where an action of God is invoked. The first part, eli-, is a possessive form of El (God), and -phelet derives from the verb palaṭ (to deliver). Thus the name literally means "my God is rescuer" or "God delivers". This structure parallels other biblical names like Eliphalet, a variant form.

Cultural and Historical Significance

In the biblical narrative, the name appears specifically in contexts of royal lineage and post-exilic history. Besides David's son, another Eliphelet is listed among those returning from the Babylonian captivity in the book of Ezra (8:13). This dual attestation shows the name's continued religious significance across centuries of Jewish history.

The modern descendant, Elifelet, is a moshav (cooperative agricultural community) in northern Israel, founded in 1949 by Yemenite immigrants. Its name directly references the biblical figure, linking contemporary settlement with ancient heritage. The moshav later absorbed immigrants from North Africa and Iraq in the 1950s, and today it is notable for its innovative production of edible grasshoppers for culinary use—a niche industry that reflects the resourcefulness of its inhabitants.

Related Forms

The name has several cognates and variants:

• Variants: Eliphalet
• Biblical Hebrew forms: 'Elifelet and 'Elifalet

These variations reflect minor phonetic shifts in transmission, but all share the same essential meaning.

Key Facts

• Meaning: "My God is deliverance"
• Origin: Hebrew
• Type: First name
• Usage: English Bible context
• Biblical figures: Son of King David; a returnee from Babylonian exile