Elishama אֱלִישָׁמָע
A Levite sent by Jehoshaphat to teach the Law.
Who is Elishama in the Bible?
Elishama was a Levite chosen by King Jehoshaphat to teach the Law throughout the cities of Judah (2 Chronicles 17:8). During the ninth century BC, Jehoshaphat launched an educational initiative to instruct his people in God's Law, sending officials, priests, and Levites as teachers across the kingdom. Elishama's selection for this role demonstrates that he possessed significant knowledge and understanding of Scripture. While the Bible provides no other details about his life or background, his participation in this teaching mission underscores the importance of spiritual education in maintaining covenant faithfulness among God's people.
Biography
Elishama is mentioned as one of the Levites sent by King Jehoshaphat to teach the Law in the cities of Judah (2Ch.17.8). During Jehoshaphat's reign, he initiated a program to instruct the people in the Law of the Lord. He sent officials, Levites, and priests throughout the cities of Judah to teach the people from the Book of the Law. Elishama was one of the Levites chosen for this task, indicating his knowledge and understanding of the Law. The Bible does not provide any additional information about Elishama's background, life, or other responsibilities as a Levite.
In Scripture
1 biblical book2 Chronicles 1 verse
- 2 Chronicles 17:8
"accompanied by certain Levites—Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah, and Tob-adonijah—along with the priests Elishama and Jehoram."
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | אֱלִישָׁמָע |