Elisha, meaning - "God is Salvation"
- There is a striking resemblance between the life of Elisha and that of Elijah. Not only do their names sound
alike, but the main events of their lives run in much the same channels. They are twin figures in Hebrew
history. In spite of the points of resemblance between the miracles performed by the two prophets, Elisha
was not a mere echo of his forerunner. There was a marked difference between the temperaments of the
two men, and their general attitude toward society. Elijah was a solitary figure like John the Baptist. His life
was largely spent in an unavailing struggle with the evils of his times, and he had his periods of great
depression. Not so with Elisha; his gift of “a double portion of the Spirit” enabled him to lead a triumphant
life as he mingled with his fellow men. When called made a complete surrender. Sought a spiritual
equipment. Spoke with authority. Put his entire personality into the work. Was of incorruptible integrity. Lived
in the spirit of Victory. A man of spiritual vision. Had a wonderful huge influence. We have no record that
he ever complained of his lot, nor fled from his enemies, or lost his courage. Even on his death bed he
seemed to be full of power, Died a victorious death and gave commands to a king. His welcome of a double
portion of the Spirit is demonstrated by the fact that he lived a victorious life, and also that he performed a
greater number of miracles than any other prophet except Moses. A Prophet for 50 years 850-800 BC.
Most likely began in his 20’s. A Major Prophet. A Prophet of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. A Prophet
during the reign of Joram, Jehu, Jehoahz, Jehoash. He was Bald and he carried a staff. He also gave aid to
travelers in the rugged hills.
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