1 Chronicles 8:20
New International Version
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

New Living Translation
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

English Standard Version
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

Berean Standard Bible
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

Berean Literal Bible
and Elienai, and Zillethai, and Eliel,

King James Bible
And Elienai, and Zilthai, and Eliel,

New King James Version
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

New American Standard Bible
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

NASB 1995
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

NASB 1977
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

Legacy Standard Bible
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

Amplified Bible
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

Berean Annotated Bible
Elienai (unto God are my eyes), Zillethai (dark), Eliel (El is God),

Christian Standard Bible
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

American Standard Version
and Elienai, and Zillethai, and Eliel,

English Revised Version
and Elienai, and Zillethai, and Eliel;

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

Good News Translation
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

International Standard Version
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

NET Bible
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

New Heart English Bible
and Elienai, and Zillethai, and Eliel,

Webster's Bible Translation
And Elienai, and Zilthai, and Eliel,
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

World English Bible
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
and Elienai, and Zillethai, and Eliel,

Berean Literal Bible
and Elienai, and Zillethai, and Eliel,

Young's Literal Translation
and Elienai, and Zillethai, and Eliel,

Smith's Literal Translation
And Elienai, and Zilthai, and Eliel,
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And Elioenai, and Selethai, and Elial,

Catholic Public Domain Version
and Elienai, and Zillethai, and Eliel,

New American Bible
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

New Revised Standard Version
Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And Mancel, Anshephi, Ebron, and Zabdai,
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
and Elienai, and Zillethai, and Eliel;

Brenton Septuagint Translation
and Elionai, and Salathi,

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Genealogy from Benjamin to Saul
19Jakim, Zichri, Zabdi, 20Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel, 21Adaiah, Beraiah, and Shimrath were the sons of Shimei.…

Cross References
Elienai

1 Chronicles 7:6-12
The three sons of Benjamin: Bela, Becher, and Jediael. / The sons of Bela: Ezbon, Uzzi, Uzziel, Jerimoth, and Iri, heads of their families—five in all. There were 22,034 mighty men of valor listed in their genealogies. / The sons of Becher: Zemirah, Joash, Eliezer, Elioenai, Omri, Jeremoth, Abijah, Anathoth, and Alemeth; all these were Becher’s sons. …

1 Chronicles 9:35-44
Jeiel the father of Gibeon lived in Gibeon. His wife’s name was Maacah. / Abdon was his firstborn son, then Zur, Kish, Baal, Ner, Nadab, / Gedor, Ahio, Zechariah, and Mikloth. …

1 Chronicles 12:1-7
Now these were the men who came to David at Ziklag, while he was still banished from the presence of Saul son of Kish (they were among the mighty men who helped him in battle; / they were archers using both the right and left hands to sling stones and shoot arrows; and they were Saul’s kinsmen from Benjamin): / Ahiezer their chief and Joash, who were the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite; Jeziel and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth; Beracah; Jehu the Anathothite; …
Zillethai

1 Chronicles 12:20
When David went to Ziklag, these men of Manasseh defected to him: Adnah, Jozabad, Jediael, Michael, Jozabad, Elihu, and Zillethai, chiefs of thousands in Manasseh.

1 Chronicles 5:23-24
Now the people of the half-tribe of Manasseh were numerous. They settled in the land from Bashan to Baal-hermon (that is, Senir, also known as Mount Hermon). / These were the heads of their families: Epher, Ishi, Eliel, Azriel, Jeremiah, Hodaviah, and Jahdiel. They were mighty men of valor, famous men, and heads of their families.

1 Chronicles 7:14-19
The descendants of Manasseh: Asriel through his Aramean concubine. She also gave birth to Machir the father of Gilead. / Machir took a wife from among the Huppites and Shuppites. The name of his sister was Maacah. Another descendant was named Zelophehad, who had only daughters. / Machir’s wife Maacah gave birth to a son, and she named him Peresh. His brother was named Sheresh, and his sons were Ulam and Rekem. …
Eliel

1 Chronicles 12:11
Attai the sixth, Eliel the seventh,

1 Chronicles 15:9
from the Hebronites, Eliel the chief and 80 of his relatives;

1 Chronicles 16:5
Asaph was the chief, Zechariah was second, then Jeiel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Mattithiah, Eliab, Benaiah, Obed-edom, and Jeiel. They were to play the harps and lyres, while Asaph sounded the cymbals
1 Samuel 9:1-2
Now there was a Benjamite, a powerful man, whose name was Kish son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Becorath, the son of Aphiah of Benjamin. / And he had a son named Saul, choice and handsome, without equal among the Israelites—a head taller than any of the people.

1 Samuel 14:49-51
Now the sons of Saul were Jonathan, Ishvi, and Malchishua. His two daughters were named Merab (his firstborn) and Michal (his younger daughter). / His wife’s name was Ahinoam daughter of Ahimaaz. The name of the commander of his army was Abner, the son of Saul’s uncle Ner. / Saul’s father Kish and Abner’s father Ner were sons of Abiel.

1 Samuel 31:1-6
Now the Philistines fought against Israel, and the men of Israel fled before them, and many fell slain on Mount Gilboa. / The Philistines hotly pursued Saul and his sons, and they killed Saul’s sons Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchishua. / When the battle intensified against Saul, the archers overtook him and wounded him critically. …

2 Samuel 21:14
And they buried the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan in Zela in the land of Benjamin, in the tomb of Saul’s father Kish. After they had done everything the king had commanded, God answered their prayers for the land.

2 Samuel 2:8-9
Meanwhile, Abner son of Ner, the commander of Saul’s army, took Saul’s son Ish-bosheth, moved him to Mahanaim, / and made him king over Gilead, Asher, Jezreel, Ephraim, and Benjamin—over all Israel.

2 Samuel 3:1
Now the war between the house of Saul and the house of David was protracted. And David grew stronger and stronger, while the house of Saul grew weaker and weaker.

2 Samuel 5:4-5
David was thirty years old when he became king, and he reigned forty years. / In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months, and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty-three years over all Israel and Judah.


Treasury of Scripture

And Elienai, and Zilthai, and Eliel,

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Eliel Eli'el Zillethai Zil'lethai Zilthai
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Eliel Eli'el Zillethai Zil'lethai Zilthai
1 Chronicles 8
1. The sons and chief men of Benjamin
33. The stock of Saul and Jonathan












Elienai
Elienai is a name listed among the descendants of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The name Elienai means "My eyes are toward God" or "God is my eyes," reflecting a common practice in ancient Israel of naming children with theophoric elements, which are names that include a reference to God. This practice underscores the cultural and religious emphasis on divine providence and guidance. The tribe of Benjamin held significant importance in Israel's history, being the tribe of King Saul, the first king of Israel, and later, the Apostle Paul. The mention of Elienai in this genealogical record highlights the continuity of the Benjamite lineage and its role in the broader narrative of Israel's history.

Zillethai
Zillethai is another name in the genealogy of Benjamin, and like many biblical names, it carries a meaning that reflects the cultural and religious values of the time. The name Zillethai can be interpreted as "My shadow is Yahweh" or "Yahweh is my protection," indicating a reliance on God's protection and presence. This reflects the ancient Israelite belief in God's active role in the lives of His people. The inclusion of Zillethai in the genealogical record serves to preserve the heritage and identity of the Benjamite tribe, which played a crucial role in the formation of the Israelite kingdom and its subsequent history.

Eliel
Eliel is a name that appears multiple times in the Old Testament, often associated with individuals of significance within the tribes of Israel. The name means "My God is God," emphasizing the monotheistic faith central to Israelite identity. In the context of 1 Chronicles 8, Eliel is part of the genealogical record of Benjamin, underscoring the importance of maintaining tribal and familial lines. This genealogical listing serves not only as a historical record but also as a theological statement about the faithfulness of God to His covenant people. The repetition of such names throughout the biblical narrative highlights the enduring legacy of faith and the continuity of God's promises to Israel.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Elienai
A descendant of Benjamin, Elienai is listed among the sons of Shashak. His name means "My eyes are toward God," reflecting a possible spiritual heritage or aspiration.

2. Zillethai
Another descendant of Benjamin, Zillethai's name means "My shadow," which could imply protection or presence. He is also listed among the sons of Shashak.

3. Eliel
Also a descendant of Benjamin, Eliel's name means "My God is God," indicating a strong affirmation of faith. He is part of the genealogical record that traces the lineage of the tribe of Benjamin.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Genealogy in Scripture
Genealogies in the Bible serve to connect God's people to His promises, showing continuity and faithfulness across generations.

Names Reflecting Faith
The names of individuals often carry significant meanings that reflect their faith or the aspirations of their parents. This can inspire us to consider the legacy we leave through our names and actions.

The Role of the Tribe of Benjamin
Understanding the role of the tribe of Benjamin in Israel's history helps us appreciate the diversity and unity within God's people. The tribe produced significant leaders and warriors, contributing to the nation's strength.

God's Faithfulness Across Generations
The genealogies remind us of God's faithfulness to His people throughout history. We can trust that He remains faithful to us today, fulfilling His promises.

Our Spiritual Heritage
Just as the Israelites had a physical lineage, Christians have a spiritual heritage in Christ. We are called to live in a way that honors this heritage and reflects our identity in Him.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 8:20?

2. How does 1 Chronicles 8:20 highlight the importance of family lineage in Scripture?

3. What can we learn about God's faithfulness through the genealogies in 1 Chronicles?

4. How does understanding 1 Chronicles 8:20 deepen our appreciation for biblical history?

5. How can we apply the value of heritage from 1 Chronicles 8:20 today?

6. What other biblical passages emphasize the significance of genealogies and family records?

7. What is the significance of Epher, Ishi, Eliel, and Azriel in 1 Chronicles 8:20?

8. How does 1 Chronicles 8:20 contribute to the genealogy of the tribe of Benjamin?

9. Why are genealogies like in 1 Chronicles 8:20 important in biblical history?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Chronicles 8?

11. In 1 Chronicles 8:29-40, do the numerous names and generations have any external corroboration, or could this genealogy have been constructed later to support certain tribal claims?

12. 1 Chronicles 20:5: Why does this text say Elhanan killed Goliath's brother, whereas 2 Samuel 21:19 seems to conflict about who killed Goliath?

13. In 1 Chronicles 8:6-7, is the reference to Ehud a contradiction of Judges 3, or is it an entirely different person with the same name?

14. In what year of King Asa's reign did Baasha, King of Israel die? Twenty-sixth year (I Kings 15:33 - 16:8) Still alive in the thirty-sixth year (2 Chronicles 16:1)
What Does 1 Chronicles 8:20 Mean
Elienai

“Elienai, Zillethai, and Eliel” (1 Chronicles 8:20) occurs in a running list of Benjaminite descendants. By the time readers reach Elienai, several things are already clear:

• The chronicler is meticulously recording the literal family line of Benjamin (see 1 Chronicles 8:1).

• Every individual named—well–known or obscure—confirms God’s covenant promise that Israel would become “a great nation” (Genesis 12:2-3).

• Genealogies serve a practical purpose: establishing land rights, priestly eligibility, and tribal identity after the exile (1 Chronicles 9:1-3; Ezra 2:59-63).

Taking Elienai at face value means recognizing that God preserves not only famous leaders but also ordinary believers. Just as Luke later traces Jesus’ ancestry name by name (Luke 3:23-38), 1 Chronicles insists that history is anchored in real people whose lives matter to God.


Zillethai

Zillethai follows immediately, reminding us that continuity depends on succession. A few observations flow from his placement:

• The line of Benjamin had nearly been wiped out in Judges 20, yet here it flourishes again—proof of divine preservation (Judges 21:17; Psalm 145:13).

• Each successive name reinforces the idea that “the boundary lines have fallen in pleasant places” (Psalm 16:6), because covenant promises did not stall with one generation.

• In the New Testament, Paul—himself from Benjamin—cites his tribal ancestry to show God’s ongoing faithfulness (Romans 11:1-2; Philippians 3:5). Zillethai and those alongside him form the human chain that makes Paul’s claim possible.

Viewed literally, 1 Chronicles 8:20 means that God kept Benjamin alive through concrete people like Zillethai, underscoring that no believer’s life is dispensable (1 Corinthians 12:14-18).


Eliel

Eliel closes the trio, and his inclusion confirms three themes:

• Completeness—by listing multiple sons, the chronicler demonstrates that Benjamin’s clan structure was intact and thriving (1 Chronicles 8:28).

• Reliability—just as later historians would rely on these records to repopulate Jerusalem (Nehemiah 11:4-7), readers today can trust the factual precision of Scripture (Proverbs 30:5).

• Expectation—because the Davidic kingdom encompassed Benjamin (1 Kings 12:21-23), preserving this tribe’s lineage foreshadows messianic fulfillment (Jeremiah 33:20-21; Acts 13:32-33).

Therefore, 1 Chronicles 8:20 literally reports that Eliel—a real descendant of Benjamin—stood in the unbroken line through which God advanced His redemptive plan.


summary

1 Chronicles 8:20 is more than a random list; it certifies that God kept His word to Abraham and to Israel through identifiable, historical people. Elienai highlights personal value, Zillethai emphasizes continuity, and Eliel underscores reliability. Together they testify that the Lord records every name, preserves every tribe, and moves His salvation plan forward one generation at a time.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
Elienai,
וֶאֱלִיעֵנַ֥י (we·’ĕ·lî·‘ê·nay)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 462: Elienai -- an Israelite

Zillethai,
וְצִלְּתַ֖י (wə·ṣil·lə·ṯay)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 6769: Zillethai -- 'shady', two Israelites

Eliel,
וֶאֱלִיאֵֽל׃ (we·’ĕ·lî·’êl)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 447: Eliel -- 'my God is God', the name of several Israelites


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OT History: 1 Chronicles 8:20 And Elienai and Zillethai and Eliel (1 Chron. 1Ch iCh i Ch 1 chr 1chr)
1 Chronicles 8:19
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