1 Kings 17:9: Meaning Explained
Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which belongeth to Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow woman...
What’s Happening Here
Instead of the wilderness, Elijah would go to a foreign city. A poor widow would miraculously provide for him.
Key Words
Why It Matters
God can use anyone to accomplish His purposes, even those outside Israel. A widow's generosity becomes part of God's miracle.
Did You Know?
Widows were typically poor and vulnerable, making this miracle even more amazing.
Tradition Spectrum
Word Study
Cross References
Frequently asked questions
What does 1 Kings 17:9 mean?
God told Elijah to go to Zarephath and live with a widow who would take care of him.
What is the context of 1 Kings 17:9?
Instead of the wilderness, Elijah would go to a foreign city. A poor widow would miraculously provide for him.
Why does 1 Kings 17:9 matter?
God can use anyone to accomplish His purposes, even those outside Israel. A widow's generosity becomes part of God's miracle.
What's a surprising detail about 1 Kings 17:9?
Widows were typically poor and vulnerable, making this miracle even more amazing.
References
- Orr, J. (ed.) (1915) The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. Chicago: Howard-Severance Company. [Public Domain]
- Abbott-Smith, G. (1921) A Manual Greek Lexicon of the New Testament. Edinburgh: T&T Clark. [Public Domain]
- Brown, F., Driver, S.R. and Briggs, C.A. (1906) A Hebrew and English Lexicon of the Old Testament. Oxford: Clarendon Press. [Public Domain]
- Church of England (1769) The Holy Bible, Authorized (King James) Version. [Public Domain]