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Hebrew · Strong's H477

אֱלִישָׁע

(e-LEE-shah)

proper noun

Elisha was a prophet of Israel in the 9th century BC, succeeding Elijah.

Elisha was a significant prophet in the northern kingdom of Israel, serving as a successor to Elijah. His ministry was marked by numerous miracles, demonstrating God's power and care for His people. He was known for his direct interaction with kings and for his involvement in political affairs, often guiding and confronting them based on divine revelation. Elisha’s ministry emphasized the spiritual battle against idolatry and the faithfulness of God to intervene in the daily lives of His people. His character is often portrayed as humble yet bold, always obedient to the LORD's commands.

The name Elisha means "my God is salvation," which aptly reflects his ministry. Many of his miraculous deeds involved healing, provisioning, and even raising the dead, showing God's salvific power. His actions often paralleled those of his predecessor, Elijah, emphasizing the continuity of God's prophetic word. Elisha’s prophetic work served as a constant reminder to Israel of their covenant with God and the consequences of straying from His ways. His life’s work was dedicated to calling Israel back to worship the one true God and to trust in His deliverance.

Elisha's impact extended beyond his lifetime, as even after his death, a miracle was attributed to his bones. This unique event highlights the enduring power associated with God's chosen prophets and the sanctity of their calling. His stories serve as a testament to God's sovereignty and His unwavering commitment to His people, even through human instruments. Elisha's narrative provides a rich understanding of divine intervention and prophetic authority within ancient Israel.

Common English renderings

  • Elisha
  • Eliseus (Greek form)

Key verses

"And it came to pass, when Jehovah would take up Elijah by a whirlwind into heaven, that Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal."

2 Kings 2:1
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"And Elijah said unto Elisha, Tarry here, I pray thee; for Jehovah hath sent me as far as Beth-el. And Elisha said, As Jehovah liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. So they went down to Beth-el."

2 Kings 2:2
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"Now Elisha was fallen sick of his sickness whereof he died: and Joash the king of Israel came down unto him, and wept over him, and said, My father, my father, the chariots of Israel and the horsemen thereof!"

2 Kings 13:14
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"And Elisha died, and they buried him. Now the bands of the Moabites invaded the land at the coming in of the year."

2 Kings 13:20
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"And it came to pass, when they were come into Samaria, that Elisha said, Jehovah, open the eyes of these men, that they may see. And Jehovah opened their eyes, and they saw; and, behold, they were in the midst of Samaria."

2 Kings 6:20
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