Elzabad אֶלְזָבָד

Male Tribe of Levi H0443H 1 book

A Korahite gatekeeper in the time of David.

Who is Elzabad in the Bible?

Elzabad was a Korahite gatekeeper who served during the reign of King David, mentioned in 1 Chronicles 26:7 as one of the sons of Shemaiah. The Korahites were a clan within the tribe of Levi assigned to various duties in the tabernacle and temple, and Elzabad and his brothers are described as capable men with the strength to perform their sacred duties. Gatekeepers held an important role in guarding the entrances to the temple, maintaining order, and ensuring that only authorized individuals entered the holy spaces. The record of Elzabad and his brothers reflects the practice of assigning temple duties to families and clans, with multiple generations serving together in these essential roles.

Biography

Elzabad is mentioned as one of the sons of Shemaiah, a Korahite gatekeeper, during the reign of King David (1Ch.26.7). The Korahites were a clan within the tribe of Levi assigned to various duties in the tabernacle and later in the temple. Elzabad and his brothers are described as capable men with the strength to perform service, indicating their fitness for their role as gatekeepers. Gatekeepers were responsible for guarding the entrances to the temple, maintaining order, and ensuring that only authorized individuals entered the sacred precincts. The mention of Elzabad and his brothers suggests that gatekeeper duties were often assigned to families or clans, with multiple generations serving together. No further information is provided about Elzabad's specific responsibilities or his later life. His inclusion in the list of gatekeepers highlights the importance of this role in maintaining the sanctity and security of the temple during David's reign.

Family

In Scripture

1 biblical book
1 Chronicles 1 verse
  • 1 Chronicles 26:7

    "Shemaiah’s sons were Othni, Rephael, Obed, and Elzabad; his brothers were Elihu and Semachiah, also capable men."

Names & Aliases

Form Language Script
Named Hebrew אֶלְזָבָד