The story of the prophet Elijah in the Hebrew Bible takes place during a time of idol worship among ancient nations. Prominent idols included Dagon, Molech, Chemosh, Asherah, and Baal, who were central to regional rituals. Despite being chosen by Yahweh, Israel also turned to these foreign gods. Elijah, sent by Yahweh, confronts Baal worship to call Israel back to its covenant.

Elijah appears in the narrative, declaring a drought to King Ahab, whose marriage to Queen Jezebel aligned him with Baal worship. The drought challenges Baal’s power as a storm god. Elijah retreats to Wadi Cherith, sustained by ravens and a brook, and later by a widow in Zarephath with a miraculous supply of flour and oil. After resurrecting the widow’s son, Elijah returns to confront Ahab.

On Mount Carmel, Elijah challenges 450 prophets of Baal. After rebuilding Yahweh’s altar and soaking the sacrifice in water, fire from heaven consumes the offering. The people acknowledge Yahweh as Elohim. Elijah orders the execution of Baal’s prophets, and rain returns after years of drought. Elijah flees Jezebel’s wrath to the wilderness, where Yahweh sustains him. Elijah journeys to Mount Horeb, experiencing a theophany and receiving new instructions.

Elijah's final journey with Elisha involves miraculous events, including parting the Jordan River. Elijah is taken to heaven by a chariot of fire, and Elisha inherits his prophetic authority. This narrative emphasizes covenant fidelity, Yahweh's power over false gods, and divine sovereignty.

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