Topical Encyclopedia Gilead is a region of significant biblical importance, located east of the Jordan River. It is characterized by its rugged terrain and fertile land, often associated with balm and healing due to its famous balm of Gilead. The region is mentioned numerous times throughout the Old Testament, serving as a backdrop for various historical and prophetic events.One of the most notable figures associated with Gilead is the prophet Elijah. Elijah is introduced in the Bible as "Elijah the Tishbite, from Tishbe in Gilead" (1 Kings 17:1). This introduction highlights his origins from this region, which plays a crucial role in understanding his prophetic ministry and character. Gilead's geographical and cultural context may have influenced Elijah's prophetic style. The region's isolation and ruggedness could have contributed to Elijah's austere and bold demeanor, as seen in his confrontations with the prophets of Baal and his fearless proclamation of God's word to King Ahab. Elijah's ministry is marked by miraculous events, including the multiplication of the widow's oil and flour (1 Kings 17:14-16), the raising of the widow's son (1 Kings 17:22), and the dramatic showdown on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:38). The spiritual climate of Gilead during Elijah's time was one of apostasy and idolatry, as the northern kingdom of Israel, under Ahab and Jezebel, had turned away from the worship of Yahweh. Elijah's mission was to call the people back to the covenant faithfulness of their ancestors. His prophetic activities often took him away from Gilead, yet his roots in this region remained a defining aspect of his identity. Elijah's connection to Gilead is further emphasized by his ascetic lifestyle, reminiscent of the wilderness prophets. His attire of a garment of hair and a leather belt (2 Kings 1:8) reflects the simplicity and severity associated with the prophets of old, possibly influenced by the environment of Gilead. In summary, Gilead serves as the birthplace and formative environment for the prophet Elijah, whose ministry was characterized by a call to repentance and a return to the worship of the one true God. His life and work continue to be a powerful testament to the enduring faithfulness and sovereignty of God amidst a backdrop of national unfaithfulness and idolatry. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 17:1And Elijah the Tishbite, who was of the inhabitants of Gilead, said to Ahab, As the LORD God of Israel lives, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word. Nave's Topical Index Library The Translation of Elijah and the Ascension of Christ The Prophet Hosea. The Prophet Joel. Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Resources Why did God use a lying spirit to deceive Ahab? | GotQuestions.orgWho were Tola, Jair, Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon? | GotQuestions.org What can we learn from the story of the Levite and his concubine? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Absalom Defeated and Slain in the Forests David Retreats To, at the Time of Absalom's Rebellion Gilead: A Mountain: Laban Overtakes Jacob At Gilead: Ammonites Make War Against Gilead: Exported Spices, Balm, and Myrrh Gilead: Pursued Into, by Absalom Gilead: Reubenites Expel the Hagarites From Gilead: The Prophet Elijah a Native of Hazael, King of Syria, Smites the Land of Invaded by Tiglath-Pileser, King of Syria Related Terms |
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