Elath(eloth)
“Grove, trees (likely referring to palm trees)”
Summary
A seaport on the eastern arm of the Red Sea (Gulf of Aqaba) in Edomite territory, which Israel controlled during periods of strength and which was important for trade with Arabia and beyond.
☩Location and Early History
Elath (also spelled Eloth) was a seaport on the eastern arm of the Red Sea, from which the Gulf of Aqaba derived its ancient name, Sinus Elaniticus or Elanitic Gulf. It lay at the extremity of the valley of El-Ghor, near Ezion-geber. The name means 'grove' or 'trees,' likely derived from the palm trees that still grow at the modern site of Aqaba. Israel passed by Elath during their wilderness journey around the land of Edom. When David conquered Edom, Elath passed into Israelite hands and became strategically important for trade with South Arabia and beyond.
☩Solomon's Trade Fleet
At Elath and neighboring Ezion-geber, Solomon built and stationed his merchant fleet. From here his ships sailed to Ophir for gold and brought back exotic goods. Later, Jehoshaphat attempted to revive this trade but his ships were wrecked. The port's position made it invaluable for commerce with Arabia, Africa, and India.
☩Changing Fortunes
Elath's possession reflected the shifting power between Judah and Edom. During Jehoram's reign, Edom revolted and presumably recovered the port. Under Amaziah and Uzziah, Judah again subdued Edom, and Uzziah rebuilt Elath and restored it to Judah. Finally, during Ahaz's reign, Rezin king of Syria took Elath, and the Jews were permanently driven out. The modern city of Aqaba occupies the site.
Related Verses6 mentions
References
- 1.James Orr (ed.), "Elath," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. II (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 2.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Elath," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).