Who was Beeliada?

Beeliada was one of the sons of Elpaal, a descendant from the tribe of Benjamin, mentioned briefly in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles. His name appears in the context of chronicling the lineages of Benjamin’s descendants, highlighting the continuity and development of the tribe within the post-exilic community of Israel.

Hebrew Meaning of the Name

The name Beeliada (בְּעֵלְיָדָע) is a compound of two Hebrew elements: “Baal” (בַּעַל), meaning “lord” or “master,” and “Yada” (יָדָע), meaning “to know.” The full name is often understood to mean “Baal knows” or possibly “The Lord knows.” However, given the sensitivity surrounding the name “Baal” in Israelite history due to its association with idolatry, some scholars suggest it may be a theophoric reference to a false deity that had not yet become taboo in that earlier period. There is some textual variation in ancient manuscripts, with alternative forms of the name such as Eliada appearing elsewhere (e.g., 2 Samuel 5:16), which may reflect efforts to replace “Baal” with “El” (God) in later redactions.

Biblical References

• 1 Chronicles 8:3 – Beeliada is named among the sons of Elpaal, part of the genealogy of Benjamin.

• 1 Chronicles 8:1-40 – This broader passage traces the lineage of Benjamin’s descendants and their roles within the tribes of Israel.

• Cross-reference: 2 Samuel 5:16 – In the genealogy of King David’s sons, a similar name “Eliada” appears, which may be a variant or editorial adjustment of “Beeliada.”

Beeliada in the Biblical Narrative

Beeliada appears solely in the genealogical records, specifically in a list of descendants from the tribe of Benjamin. His inclusion is part of the chronicler’s effort to preserve the family lines of Israel after the Babylonian exile, reaffirming the identities of Israel’s tribes and their members.

Although Beeliada himself is not the subject of a story or event in the biblical narrative, his placement within the genealogy is intentional. These genealogies served to establish heritage, territorial claims, and tribal responsibilities, especially relevant during the restoration of Israel’s worship and societal structure.

Relevance for Today’s Christians

Even seemingly minor figures in Scripture like Beeliada have significance. His brief mention is part of a larger biblical emphasis on lineage, covenant, and God’s faithfulness to His people through generations. For Christians today, Beeliada’s inclusion highlights:

• God‘s concern for individuals within His covenant people. Every name listed—whether famous or obscure—represents a life known to God.

• The importance of spiritual heritage. Just as Israel remembered its tribes and forefathers, Christians are part of a spiritual lineage grounded in faith and community.

• The transformation of identity. The possible substitution of “Baal” with “El” in names such as Beeliada to Eliada illustrates the move away from idolatry to the worship of the one true God—a call still relevant today.

Connection to Jesus and the Gospel

Genealogies in the Old Testament anticipate the ultimate genealogy in the New Testament—the lineage of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1; Luke 3). These records affirm God’s sovereign control over history and His preservation of a faithful remnant leading to the Messiah.

Though Beeliada does not appear in the messianic line, he represents the broader people of Israel from whom the Messiah came. His name, meaning “Baal knows” or, in revised form, “God knows,” finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, through whom God’s intimate knowledge of and care for His people is most fully revealed (John 10:14; Galatians 4:4-5).

Broader Biblical Themes

1. The Value of Every Person in God’s Plan

Even the briefest mentions in the Bible show that no individual is forgotten in God’s purposes. Beeliada’s name, preserved in Scripture, reminds us that each person matters to God.

2. The Danger of Idolatry and the Call to Purity

The use of “Baal” in names during earlier periods of Israel’s history reflects a time when the influence of Canaanite religion had not yet been fully purged. Later editorial changes to such names (like Eliada) show Israel’s growing sensitivity to remaining pure in their worship.

3. Faithfulness Across Generations

The chronicler’s attention to genealogies emphasizes generational faithfulness, identity, and continuity. God‘s promises to Abraham extended through the generations and are still unfolding today through the church.

4. The Sovereignty of God in History

Even in the listing of tribal families, God’s providence is evident. He oversees nations and individuals alike, weaving them into His redemptive narrative.

Reflection Questions

1. Why do you think God preserved the names of even lesser-known individuals like Beeliada in Scripture?

2. What does Beeliada’s name teach us about how names reflect worship and identity?

3. How do genealogies in the Bible connect to our understanding of Jesus and the gospel?

4. In what ways can we preserve and honor our spiritual heritage today?

5. What idols or influences might we need to remove from our lives to follow God wholeheartedly?

Even in obscurity, Beeliada reminds us that God knows each of His people. His story, or rather his place in God’s story, points to the larger narrative of redemption, where every name written by God is never forgotten (Luke 10:20).