1 Chronicles 14:7

And Elishama, and Beeliada, and Eliphalet.

1 Chronicles 14:7 (KJV)

Context

This verse lists three sons born to King David in Jerusalem: Elishama, Beeliada, and Eliphalet. The list appears within a genealogy of David’s children (1 Chronicles 14:3-7), a record that emphasizes the growth of his royal household after he established his rule in the city. Chronicles was written for the post-exilic community to affirm their identity and the enduring significance of the Davidic covenant.

Meaning

The names themselves carry meaning. Elishama means “God hears,” Beeliada means “the Lord knows” (using “Baal” as a title for “lord“), and Eliphalet means “God delivers.” Together, they reflect a family that looked to God for hearing, knowledge, and deliverance.

Biblical connections

A notable detail is the variant spelling of the second name. In the parallel account in 2 Samuel 5:14-16, the same son is called “Eliada,” which means “God knows.” The difference likely stems from scribal or editorial practice. In early Israelite history, “baal” was sometimes used as a generic title for “lord” or “master,” and could even refer to Yahweh. But as Canaanite worship of the false god Baal became a snare to Israel, the word grew stigmatized. Later scribes sometimes replaced “Baal” with “El” (God) to avoid the name of an idol. This explains the variation without suggesting that David honored a pagan deity.

Comparing the lists in 2 Samuel 5, 1 Chronicles 3, and 1 Chronicles 14 reveals minor differences in spelling and number of names. Some sons may have died in infancy, which would explain omissions in certain lists. These variations do not affect any core doctrine. Instead, they testify to the authentic, historically grounded process through which God preserved His Word, encouraging a thoughtful approach to Scripture that acknowledges its ancient origins.

Application

The preservation of these names reminds us that God works through real human families and histories. Just as David’s house was established by God’s grace despite human imperfections, our own lives and legacies are held secure by a God who knows us intimately. He is the true “Eliada“—the God who knows everything about us, loves us, and calls us to be part of His eternal family through Jesus Christ.

Reflection

These names also point to the fulfillment of God’s promise to David of a lasting house (2 Samuel 7:12-16). The Chronicler’s record of David’s sons underscores the continuity of God’s redemptive plan through David’s descendants, a line that ultimately leads to Christ. As we read this brief list, we can trust that God remembers His people and His promises, even in the details of a genealogy.