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Kings & Prophets · Old Testament

Elijah

Fiery Prophet Who Confronted Kings

Name meaning
My God is Yahweh
Name origin
Hebrew: אֵלִיָּהוּ (Eliyahu), meaning "my God is Yahweh"

Quick facts

Occupation
  • Prophet
  • Wilderness dweller
Birthplace
Tishbe in Gilead (traditionally)
Modern-day location
The Gilead highlands east of the Jordan River, in present-day Jordan; the exact site is uncertain.
Family
  • No family listed; spiritual father to Elisha
First mention
1 Kings 17:1
Last mention
2 Kings 2:11; also Malachi 4:5
Key artifacts
  • Mantle (cloak)
  • Altar on Mount Carmel
  • Chariot of fire (in narrative)

Key verses

  • “The LORD, he is the God; the LORD, he is the God.”

    1 Kings 18:39

  • “and after the fire a still small voice.”

    1 Kings 19:12

  • “Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly.”

    James 5:17

Biography

Early Life

Elijah the Tishbite appears suddenly, confronting King Ahab during a time of widespread Baal worship under Queen Jezebel.

Defining Biblical Moments

Elijah was fed by ravens at the brook Cherith, multiplied a widow's flour and oil, challenged Baal's prophets on Mount Carmel where fire fell, and heard God's whisper at Horeb. He did not die but was taken up in a whirlwind.

Strengths

Elijah is portrayed as bold, prayerful, and zealous for exclusive loyalty to the LORD, yet also honest about despair.

Weaknesses & Lessons

After Carmel he fled in fear and discouragement, revealing that even courageous servants need rest, nourishment and gentle divine encounter.

Life Lessons for Today

Bold stands for truth must be accompanied by care for inner resilience; God often speaks in quiet, sustaining ways after dramatic moments.

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Elijah appears in Heroes, Kings & Prophets of the Old Testament, alongside more profiles like this one.

Page #23 in Heroes, Kings & Prophets of the Old Testament

Heroes, Kings & Prophets of the Old Testament front cover

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