Elnaam is a figure found in the Old Testament, specifically within the records of King David’s military administration. While he is not described as a warrior himself, he is immortalized in the Scriptures through the valor and service of his children.
The Scriptural Record
Elnaam appears in the list of David’s “mighty men,” a group of elite warriors known for their extraordinary feats of strength and loyalty. His name is found in the first book of Chronicles:
“Eliel the Mahavite, and Jeribai, and Joshaviah, the sons of Elnaam, and Ithmah the Moabite,” (1 Chronicles 11:46, KJV)
His Identity and Family
Unlike many figures who are mentioned for their own deeds, Elnaam’s significance is tied to his role as a father of heroes.
- His Sons: Jeribai and Joshaviah. Both men were part of David’s elite guard, often referred to as “The Thirty” (though the list expanded over time).
- The Septuagint Variant: Interestingly, in the Septuagint (the ancient Greek translation of the Old Testament), Elnaam is sometimes listed as one of the warriors himself, rather than just the father of two. However, the Hebrew Masoretic Text, which the King James Version follows, clearly identifies him as the father.
Etymology and Meaning
The name Elnaam carries a beautiful and peaceful meaning in the Hebrew tongue:
- “God is Pleasantness”: Derived from El (God) and na’em (to be pleasant, sweet, or delightful).
- “God is his Delight”: It suggests a person whose life or character was marked by the favor and joy of the Lord.
Historical and Theological Significance
Elnaam represents a common biblical theme: the Legacy of Faith. Though he does not have a “heroic” story recorded in his own right, the fact that two of his sons served at the highest level of King David’s army suggests a household of discipline, strength, and devotion.
In the context of 1 Chronicles 11, Elnaam’s name appears alongside a diverse group of men, including Ithmah the Moabite and Uriah the Hittite. This highlights that David’s “mighty men” were a collection of individuals from various backgrounds and families who were united by their loyalty to God’s anointed king.
Elnaam serves as a reminder that behind every great “mighty man” of God, there is often a lineage and a father whose name is preserved simply because of the character he instilled in the next generation.