Eliam was the father of Bathsheba, who became King David's wife and the mother of Solomon. He was one of David's thirty mighty men, known for his bravery and loyalty. He was also the son of Ahithophel, David's counselor who later betrayed him during Absalom's rebellion.
As the son of Ahithophel from Giloh, Eliam had close ties to the king's court. Ahithophel's later betrayal of David may have been motivated by David's treatment of his granddaughter Bathsheba.
12Absalom also sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counselor, to come from his town of Giloh. And while Absalom was offering the sacrifices, the conspiracy gained strength, and his following kept growing.