This meaning is prominent in the Bible, particularly in the phrase "Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?" which translates to "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?" uttered by Jesus on the cross.
Here's a breakdown of its usage:
* As a name: While not as common as other names, Eli is used as a given name, especially in Jewish communities.
* In prayer: "Eli" can be used as a prayerful exclamation or a personal expression of devotion to God.
* In theological context: The word "Eli" can be used in theological discourse to refer to God, particularly in a personal and intimate way.
It's important to note that the meaning of "Eli" can vary slightly depending on context, but the core concept of God or divine presence is consistently present.