Elisha
Who is Elisha? Elisha is the Old Testament prophet who served in Israel after Elijah, guiding people by God's word and embodying themes of mercy, justice, and faithfulness through many events in his life.
Elisha is a major Old Testament figure who takes up the prophetic role after Elijah and appears especially in 2 Kings. His life is shaped by his calling to faithful service, his relationship with kings, his involvement in the struggles of ordinary people, and the words he speaks under God's direction. In Scripture, Elisha stands out not only through extraordinary events but also through a ministry that touches daily human need. His encounters with the poor, the sick, rulers, and prophetic disciples show the breadth of his service. To explore Elisha's story more closely, see the related chapters below.
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- What Is a Prophet?
What does "prophet" mean, what do prophets do in the Bible and which books contain them? A short, neutral guide to the meaning of prophecy, the major and minor prophets and where to start reading.
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What is Elisha best known for?
Elisha is best known for taking up the prophetic role after Elijah and for the striking events described during his ministry. In Scripture, he appears as a prophet who helps the poor, speaks to kings, and offers guidance in times of crisis.
What is Elisha's relationship to Elijah?
Elisha is presented as the prophet who comes after Elijah and first appears as his attendant or disciple. The narrative emphasizes Elisha's calling and then his continuation of that work, creating a clear continuity between the two prophets.