Story Summary
Explore the epic showdown in Elijah and the Prophets of Baal. Witness the miracle on Mount Carmel where faith triumphs over idolatry in this Torah classic.
During a period of deep apostasy in Israel, King Ahab and Queen Jezebel led the people to worship the idol Baal. To prove the power of the living God, the prophet Elijah challenged four hundred and fifty prophets of Baal to a contest on Mount Carmel. Each side prepared an altar with a bull, but they were forbidden from lighting a fire. The prophets of Baal cried out all day, dancing and gashing themselves, yet their altar remained cold. When it was Elijah's turn, he rebuilt his altar with twelve stones, representing the tribes of Israel, and ordered four large jars of water to be poured over the sacrifice three times until the trench around it was full. With a simple, humble prayer, a magnificent fire descended from heaven, consuming the sacrifice, the wood, the stones, and even the water in the trench. The people fell on their faces, declaring that the Lord alone is God, and the long drought over the land finally came to an end.
The Moral
True faith and divine truth will always prevail over the clamor of false idols and peer pressure.
“How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him!”
Fun Fact
In Jewish tradition, Elijah is said to return to earth to herald the coming of the Messiah, which is why a cup is set for him during the Passover Seder.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Elijah and the Prophets of Baal?
The moral is that truth and genuine faith in God are more powerful than any number of false idols or popular delusions. It teaches that one person standing with the truth can overcome a multitude standing with a lie.
Where did the confrontation between Elijah and the prophets take place?
The confrontation took place on Mount Carmel, a coastal mountain range in northern Israel. This location was chosen as a public stage for all of Israel to witness the power of the true God.
Why did Elijah pour water on his sacrifice?
Elijah poured water on the sacrifice to make the miracle undeniable. By soaking the wood and filling the trench, he ensured that no one could claim the fire started through natural means or hidden embers.
Who was the King of Israel during Elijah's time?
King Ahab ruled Israel during this period. He is often described as one of the most wicked kings because he allowed his wife, Jezebel, to introduce the worship of Baal to the nation.
What happened to the drought after the fire fell?
Immediately after the people repented and acknowledged God, Elijah prayed for rain. A small cloud appeared over the sea, which quickly turned into a massive storm, ending the three-year drought that had plagued the land.
How many prophets of Baal did Elijah face?
Elijah faced four hundred and fifty prophets of Baal. Despite being outnumbered, his unwavering faith allowed him to stand firm against the overwhelming majority.
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