Eliphaz
Meaning & Etymology
Eliphaz derives from Hebrew elements 'Eli' meaning 'my God' and 'phaz' interpreted as 'God has refined' or 'God is pure,' yielding a compound meaning of 'God is pure' or 'my God has refined.' This reflects ancient Semitic naming practices where divine attributes were invoked for protection or piety. Alternative parses suggest 'God of gold,' linking 'phaz' to refinement processes like metallurgy, symbolizing divine purity or value. The name's semantic development emphasizes themes of divine judgment and moral refinement, common in biblical contexts. Scholarly interpretations vary slightly but consistently tie it to expressions of faith in God's sovereignty and purity.
Linguistic Origin
The name originates in ancient Hebrew, part of the Northwest Semitic language family spoken by Israelites around the 2nd millennium BCE. It appears in the Hebrew Bible, with transmission through Masoretic texts and Septuagint Greek transliterations as 'Eliphas.' Aramaic and later rabbinic literature preserved it, influencing Jewish onomastics. During the Hellenistic period, it spread via diaspora communities into Greek and Latin forms. Modern usage persists in English-speaking religious contexts, retaining Hebrew phonology with minor adaptations in vowel pointing from Tiberian traditions.
Cultural Background
In Judaism, Eliphaz features prominently in Job interpretations, symbolizing flawed human wisdom contrasted with divine mystery, as discussed in Talmudic debates. Christianity views him through sermons on theodicy, with figures like Calvin critiquing his retributive theology. In Islam, parallels appear in Job narratives (Ayyub), though the name is less emphasized. Culturally, it evokes piety and counsel in conservative religious circles, often invoked in discussions of faith amid adversity.
Pronunciation
Typically pronounced EL-ih-faz in English, with stress on the first syllable; Hebrew variant Eh-lee-FAHZ emphasizes the final syllable. Common variants include eh-LIH-faz in some American English dialects or eh-lee-FAZ in liturgical Hebrew.
Gender Usage
Exclusively male in historical and contemporary usage.
Nicknames & Variants
Nicknames
Variants
- Eliphas
- Elifaz
- Elyfaz
Origins & History
Historical Namesakes
- Eliphaz the Temanite - biblical figure - one of Job's friends offering counsel in the Book of Job
- Eliphaz (son of Esau) - biblical patriarch - grandson of Esau and tribal ancestor in Genesis genealogies
Mythology & Literature
In the Book of Job, Eliphaz the Temanite serves as a central figure among Job's three friends, delivering speeches that defend divine justice while challenging Job's suffering. His role embodies wisdom literature traditions, drawing from Edomite sage stereotypes in ancient Near Eastern lore. The name recurs in Genesis 36 as a son of Esau, linking it to Edomite tribal foundations and nomadic heritage narratives. Literary adaptations in medieval commentaries and modern retellings, such as in theological poetry, portray Eliphaz as a voice of orthodox piety.
Historical Significance
Eliphaz son of Esau, mentioned in Genesis 36, represents early Edomite leadership and clan structure in Iron Age southern Levant records. Eliphaz the Temanite in Job, dated to exilic or post-exilic periods, exemplifies prophetic and advisory roles in wisdom traditions, influencing rabbinic and patristic exegesis. These biblical bearers shaped interpretations of suffering and retribution across Jewish, Christian, and Islamic scholarly lineages.
Additional Information
Popularity & Demographics
Rare as a modern given name, primarily used in religious or traditional communities with biblical naming preferences. Visibility remains niche, concentrated among families valuing Old Testament heritage.
Trend Analysis
Usage remains stable but minimal, tied to religious revivals or biblical name trends without broad mainstream growth.
Geographical Distribution
Concentrated in regions with strong Protestant or Jewish biblical naming traditions, such as parts of the United States and Israel.
Personality Traits
Associated with traits like wisdom, steadfastness, and moral rigor in naming psychology, reflecting biblical portrayals of thoughtful counsel.
Compatibility & Initials
Pairs well with biblical surnames starting with J, K, or M (e.g., Job, King); initials E.J. or E.K. offer balanced flow.
Sociolinguistic Usage
Primarily formal or religious registers in English and Hebrew-speaking communities; rare in secular or casual contexts.
Related Names
From The Same Origin
Explore more from this origin in Hebrew origin names .