Topical Encyclopedia Ba'al-shal'ishah is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the ministry of the prophet Elisha. The name "Ba'al-shal'ishah" is thought to mean "lord of three things" or "lord of the third part," though the exact etymology remains uncertain. This place is noted for its agricultural produce, particularly during a time of famine.Biblical Reference: The primary biblical reference to Ba'al-shal'ishah is found in 2 Kings 4:42-44. In this passage, a man from Ba'al-shal'ishah brings the prophet Elisha an offering of firstfruits, consisting of twenty loaves of barley bread and fresh ears of grain. This act of faith and generosity occurs during a time of famine, highlighting the man's trust in God's provision and the importance of supporting God's prophets. 2 Kings 4:42-44 states: "Now a man from Baal-shalishah came to the man of God with a sack of twenty loaves of barley bread from the firstfruits, along with some heads of new grain. 'Give it to the people to eat,' said Elisha. But his servant asked, 'How can I set this before a hundred men?' 'Give it to the people to eat,' said Elisha, 'for this is what the LORD says: "They will eat and have some left over."' So he set it before them, and they ate and had some left over, according to the word of the LORD." Historical and Geographical Context: Ba'al-shal'ishah is believed to have been located in the region of Ephraim, although its precise location is not definitively known today. The area was likely a fertile agricultural zone, as indicated by the reference to the firstfruits offering. The mention of barley bread and fresh grain suggests that Ba'al-shal'ishah was a place where crops were cultivated, even during difficult times. Theological Significance: The account of Ba'al-shal'ishah in 2 Kings 4 underscores several theological themes. First, it highlights the principle of giving to God and His servants, even in times of scarcity. The man from Ba'al-shal'ishah demonstrates faith by offering his firstfruits to Elisha, trusting in God's provision. Second, the miracle of multiplication performed by Elisha serves as a testament to God's power and faithfulness. It prefigures the New Testament miracles of Jesus, such as the feeding of the five thousand, where a small amount of food is miraculously multiplied to feed a large crowd. This narrative reinforces the belief in God's ability to provide abundantly for His people. Lastly, the passage illustrates the role of prophets as intermediaries of God's will and blessing. Elisha's command to distribute the food and the subsequent miracle affirm his authority as a prophet and the divine origin of his message. Cultural Insights: In ancient Israel, the offering of firstfruits was a significant act of worship and gratitude, acknowledging God's provision and sovereignty over the land. The man from Ba'al-shal'ishah's decision to bring his firstfruits to Elisha reflects the cultural and religious practices of the time, emphasizing the importance of supporting God's representatives and the community of faith. Ba'al-shal'ishah, though briefly mentioned, serves as a backdrop for a powerful demonstration of faith, divine provision, and prophetic authority in the biblical narrative. Concordance Ba'al-shal'ishah (1 Occurrence)2 Kings 4:42 Thesaurus Ba'al-shal'ishah (1 Occurrence)Ba'al-shal'ishah. Baal-shalishah, Ba'al-shal'ishah. Baaltamar . Multi-Version Concordance Ba'al-shal'ishah (1 Occurrence). 2 Kings ... /b/ba'al-shal'ishah.htm - 6k Baal-shalishah (1 Occurrence) Baaltamar (1 Occurrence) Resources Who was Moloch/Molech? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about child sacrifice? | GotQuestions.org What is an Asherah pole? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |