Metaphysical meaning of Elah (mbd)
Elah, e'-lah (Heb.)--terebinth; oak; so called from its strength, hardiness, and size.
a A valley in Judah, where Saul and the men of Israel encamped and fought against the Philistines at the time that David killed Goliath (I Sam. 17:2). b Son of Baasha and king of Israel, who was killed by Zimri while in the house of Arza drunk (I Kings 16:8-14). c A chief who was descended from Esau (Gen. 36:41). d Son of Caleb of the tribe of Judah (I Chron. 4:15). e A Benjamite (I Chron. 9:8).
Meta. A consciousness of strength and protection (an oak stands for something very strong and protective). When this thought of strength and protection is based on God, sense errors (the Philistines) are overcome and all is well. When it is based on material beliefs, however, as would be the case with Elah, the drunken king of Israel who was assassinated, and the Elah who was descended from Esau (Esau signifies the physical in man), this thought of strength and protection would be limited; it would be likely to fail one at the very time that one needed it most.
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Preceding Entry: Ekronites
Following Entry: Elam
