Question 1

What does 2 Samuel 5:16 mean?

Accepted Answer

2 Samuel 5:16 lists three of King David’s sons: Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphalet. This verse is part of a longer section naming the children born to David after he became king in Jerusalem. The book of 2 Samuel is describing David’s growing family as a sign of his increasing power and stability as king. These names are included in a genealogical record, showing David’s lineage and the expansion of his household during his reign in Jerusalem.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 5:16

Accepted Answer

אֱלִישָׁמָע (Elishama, transliterated "Elishama") means "God has heard." The name suggests a sense of divine attention or response, which may have been meaningful for David’s family. אֶלְיָדָע (Eliada, transliterated "Eliada") means "God knows" or "God has known." This name reflects a recognition of God’s awareness or knowledge, fitting for a royal family conscious of their relationship with God. אֱלִיפָלֶט (Eliphalet, transliterated "Eliphalet") means "God is deliverance" or "God is escape." The name carries a sense of rescue or protection, which could reflect David’s own experiences and hopes for his children.

Question 3

Why 2 Samuel 5:16 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse helps clarify the historical record of David’s family, which is important for understanding later events and genealogies in the Bible. Listing these sons emphasizes David’s establishment in Jerusalem and the fulfillment of God’s promises to him. The names themselves, each with a reference to God, highlight the spiritual outlook of David’s household and the importance of faith in Israel’s royal line.

2 Samuel 5:16 (KJV)