Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A Hebrew prophet: Elijah is a significant prophet in the Old Testament of the Bible, known for his zealous defense of the worship of Yahweh (God) against the worship of idols, particularly the Canaanite god Baal.
   • A biblical figure: He is a central character in the biblical narratives of 1 and 2 Kings, renowned for performing miracles and for his dramatic ascent to heaven.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun:
  • The story of Elijah challenging the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel is a famous biblical account.
  • In the narrative, Elijah was fed by ravens during a time of famine.
  • Many traditions await the return of Elijah as a forerunner of the Messiah.

Advanced Usage

• "The spirit of Elijah": This phrase is often used metaphorically to refer to a person who demonstrates great prophetic zeal, moral courage, or a powerful commitment to a cause, similar to the biblical prophet.
  • The reformer spoke with the spirit of Elijah, fearlessly condemning the corruption he saw.

Variants and Related Words

• Elijah is the standard English transliteration from the Hebrew name (meaning "My God is Yahweh").
• Elias: This is the Greek and Latin form of the name Elijah, commonly used in the New Testament and in various historical Christian texts.
  • In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus speaks of Elias (Elijah) having already come.

Synonyms

• Prophet: A person regarded as an inspired teacher or proclaimer of the will of God. (Elijah is a specific instance of a prophet.)
• Seer: An archaic term for a prophet; someone who sees visions of the future.

Related Phrases

• Chariot of fire: This phrase is directly associated with Elijah, describing the miraculous vehicle in which he was taken up to heaven.
  • The prophet was carried away in a chariot of fire.
• Mantle of Elijah: Refers to the cloak of Elijah, which his successor Elisha picked up. It symbolizes the passing of authority, responsibility, or a prophetic calling from one person to another.
  • The new director took up the mantle of Elijah, continuing the ambitious projects of her predecessor.

Noun

1. a Hebrew prophet in the Old Testament who opposed the worship of idols; he was persecuted for rebuking Ahab and Jezebel (king and queen of Israel); he was taken up to heaven in a chariot of fire (circa 9th century BC)