Illustration created for this project.
Elah
A son of Baasha, murdered while drunk by his officer Zimri.
What we know — and how we know it
Bible — stated in scripture (with verse) · 1
Scholarly — supported scholarly belief · 1
Life, role & deeds
BibleSon of Baasha, killed while drunk by his officer Zimri, ending the house of Baasha.
1 Kings 16:8–10
Name & titles
ScholarlyThe name Elah (Hebrew ʾElah) is an ordinary Hebrew noun meaning 'terebinth' or large oak-like tree — the same word used for the Valley of Elah — a common naming pattern drawn from the natural world rather than a theophoric element.
Hebrew lexical analysis of ʾelah, 'terebinth/oak' (BDB, HALOT); no inscription or ancient author independently attests this short-reigned king of Israel.