Category Archives: Readings

Ahab is succeeded by his son Ahaziah. The new king falls through the railing on the roof of his palace and is injured. He sends messengers to ask for healing from Baalzebub, the god of Ekron. Elijah intercepts his messengers … Continue reading →

When Israel’s King Ahab tries to convince Judah’s King Jehoshaphat to join him in retaking a city from the Syrians, he has 400 false prophets predict victory. But one prophet – Micaiah – instead says Ahab will die, and dogs … Continue reading →

King Ahab wants to buy a vineyard from Naboth, but is refused. The Law forbade Jews from relinquishing their inheritance in the Promised Land. Queen Jezebel conducts a treacherous scheme to falsely accuse Naboth of blasphemy and disloyalty, and he … Continue reading →

A war with the Syrian king Benhadad prompts an unnamed prophet to promise King Ahab victory. But he fails to finish the job by executing Benhadad – “A man whom I appointed to utter destruction.”  The story reveals an underlying … Continue reading →

Rabbinical tradition considered Mt. Horeb (Sinai) as a sacred mountain, and found references to mountains serving as types for Israel and even the Messiah.  Elijah’s experience of the “still, small voice” of God there embodied a whole host of meanings … Continue reading →

We find the prophet Elijah depressed and at the lowest point in his life. He flees to Mt. Sinai (Horeb), where God speaks to him in a “still, small voice.” On his return he calls Elisha to be his companion. … Continue reading →

After Queen Jezebel hears of Elijah’s victory over the prophets of Baal at Mt. Carmel, she vows to kill him. Suddenly experiencing a loss of faith, Elijah flees into the wilderness, burdened by despair, taking shelter under a Juniper tree. … Continue reading →