Biblical References:
Baal-Shalisha is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Kings 4:42. The passage reads: "Now a man came from Baal-shalisha, bringing the man of God bread of the firstfruits—twenty loaves of barley bread and fresh grain in his sack. 'Give it to the people to eat,' said Elisha" .

Historical and Geographical Context:
Baal-Shalisha is identified as a location in the region of Ephraim, near Gilgal. The name "Baal-Shalisha" suggests a connection to the Canaanite deity Baal, which was common in place names of the region before the Israelite conquest. The prefix "Baal" indicates a place of worship or a high place dedicated to this deity, while "Shalisha" may refer to a district or a triad, possibly indicating a division of land or a grouping of settlements.

Cultural and Religious Significance:
The mention of Baal-Shalisha in the context of Elisha's ministry highlights the ongoing struggle between the worship of Yahweh and the remnants of Canaanite religious practices. The man from Baal-Shalisha bringing firstfruits to Elisha signifies a dedication to the God of Israel, despite the pagan connotations of the place name. This act of bringing firstfruits aligns with the Mosaic Law, which required the offering of the first yield of the harvest to God as a sign of gratitude and dependence (Exodus 23:19).

Theological Implications:
The narrative in 2 Kings 4:42-44, where Elisha miraculously multiplies the loaves to feed a hundred men, echoes the provision of God for His people, reminiscent of the manna in the wilderness (Exodus 16). This miracle prefigures the New Testament accounts of Jesus feeding the multitudes, emphasizing God's power to provide and the importance of faith and obedience.

Archaeological Insights:
While the exact location of Baal-Shalisha remains uncertain, it is generally believed to be in the vicinity of modern-day Kefar Shalishit, based on historical and geographical clues. Archaeological findings in the region have provided insights into the agricultural practices of ancient Israel, supporting the biblical account of grain and bread offerings.

Linguistic Notes:
The name "Baal-Shalisha" combines the Canaanite word "Baal," meaning "lord" or "master," with "Shalisha," which may derive from the Hebrew root for "three" or "third." This could imply a third district or a triadic division, though the exact meaning remains speculative.

Conclusion:
Baal-Shalisha serves as a testament to the complex interplay of cultural and religious influences in ancient Israel. The account of the man bringing firstfruits to Elisha underscores the faithfulness of the remnant in Israel and the enduring provision of God through His prophets.1 Samuel 9:4
And he passed through mount Ephraim, and passed through the land of Shalisha, but they found them not: then they passed through the land of Shalim, and there they were not: and he passed through the land of the Benjamites, but they found them not.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 4:42
And there came a man from Baalshalisha, and brought the man of God bread of the first fruits, twenty loaves of barley, and full ears of corn in the husk thereof. And he said, Give to the people, that they may eat.
Nave's Topical Index

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