1. the son of Jorim, in the genealogy of Christ. Lk. 3:29

The Origin and Meaning of Eliezer

The name Eliezer is Hebrew in origin. It is comprised of two elements: “Eli,” which means “my God,” and “Ezer,” which means “help” or “aid.” Therefore, Eliezer translates to “My God is Help” or “God is my Help.”

Eliezer in Hebrew Context

Before jumping into the Greek context, it’s essential to grasp its Hebrew roots. The name Eliezer is mentioned several times in the Old Testament, associated with different individuals.

One of the most notable Eliezers is Abraham’s servant in Genesis 15:2. In this passage, Abraham expresses concern about his childlessness and considers Eliezer of Damascus, his trusted servant, as his heir. This Eliezer is often thought to symbolize faithfulness and servitude.

In the Book of Exodus, Eliezer is also the name of Moses’ second son, as mentioned in Exodus 18:4. Moses named his son Eliezer because God helped him escape Pharaoh’s sword, reinforcing the theme of divine assistance.

Translation of Eliezer in Greek

When examining the Bible in its Greek context, particularly the Old Testament’s Greek translation known as the Septuagint, Eliezer appears as “Ἐλιέζερ.” This transliteration stays true to its Hebrew form. In Greek, each letter represents the closest equivalent to its Hebrew counterpart. Thus, the meaning remains consistent across both languages: “My God is Help.”

Significance of Eliezer in the Greek Context

Understanding Eliezer’s meaning in Greek is not enough; we must also consider its significance.

Eliezer in the Septuagint

The Septuagint is a Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures completed by Jewish scholars around the 3rd century BCE. The translation was commissioned to serve the Jewish community in Alexandria, who spoke Greek.

In the Septuagint, the name Eliezer occurs precisely as it does in the Hebrew Bible. Its translation underwent minimal changes, maintaining its meaning of divine aid. The consistency in translation reflects the importance of preserving the original connotations and religious undertones.

Symbolism of the Name

The name Eliezer encapsulates a central theme in both the Hebrew and Greek texts of the Bible: reliance on God’s help. In a world full of uncertainties and trials, naming someone Eliezer serves as a constant reminder of divine intervention and support. This was a vital concept for the Jewish community living in Greek-speaking regions, as it reinforced their faith and identity.

Eliezer in Early Christian Thought

Early Christians utilized Greek translations of the Old Testament, including the Septuagint. For them, names like Eliezer held theological significance. It underscored God’s unwavering support, a theme that resonates deeply within Christian teachings.

The name Eliezer also briefly appears in the New Testament book of Luke in the genealogy of Jesus (Luke 3:29), though it is a different Eliezer from those in the Old Testament. This signifies that the name remained in use and continued to convey its powerful meaning through the ages.

Instances of Eliezer in the Bible

To gain a thorough understanding, it’s beneficial to examine the specific instances where Eliezer appears in the Bible.

Eliezer of Damascus

Genesis 15:2:

“But Abram said, ‘Lord God, what will You give me, seeing I go childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?'”

This passage introduces Eliezer, Abraham’s servant. His presence in Abraham’s household is a testament to his loyalty and service, exemplifying the trust Abraham places in him. Though Eliezer is not Abraham’s blood heir, his role is pivotal.

Eliezer, Son of Moses

Exodus 18:4:

“And the name of the other was Eliezer, for he said, ‘The God of my father was my help and delivered me from the sword of Pharaoh.'”

Here, Moses names his second son Eliezer, explicitly mentioning the divine help he received. This serves not just as a personal testament for Moses but as a broader statement to the Israelites about God’s protection and assistance.

Eliezer in the Genealogy of Jesus

Luke 3:29:

“…the son of Joshua, the son of Eliezer, the son of Jorim, the son of Matthat, the son of Levi.”

While this Eliezer is mentioned only briefly, his inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus indicates the name’s continued significance through generations.

The Broader Theological Implications

In both Greek and Hebrew contexts, the name Eliezer encapsulates the broader theological theme of God’s assistance and intervention in human affairs.

Divine Help

The notion that “My God is Help” intertwines with the broader message of the Bible: God’s involvement in the world and in human lives. This divine help is not just a theoretical concept; it manifests in tangible ways, whether through miraculous events or more subtle forms of guidance and support.

Covenant and Faithfulness

Eliezer, particularly Abraham’s servant, symbolizes faithfulness to God’s covenant. His role highlights the importance of trust and loyalty, whether to God or to one’s community. This concept transcends the Old Testament and finds resonance in New Testament teachings as well.

Intercultural Continuity

By preserving the name Eliezer’s meaning across languages, there’s an intercultural continuity that binds Jewish and Christian texts. This consistency underscores the universal nature of certain theological concepts, particularly the idea of divine help and providence.

Conclusion

So, what does Eliezer mean in Greek in the context of the Bible? The answer extends beyond a mere translation to encompass a rich tapestry of history, theology, and faith. In both Hebrew and Greek, Eliezer remains a powerful testament to the belief that God is a present help in times of need. From the faithful servant of Abraham to the son of Moses, this name carries a legacy of divine assistance that has traversed languages, cultures, and millennia.