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Elisha was a prophet in the Book of Kings and the successor of Elijah (Eliyahu). He was known as a miracle worker, performing such feats as resurrecting the dead and healing the sick. He also aided and saved the life of the Israelite king Jehoash.
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A Double Portion of Spirit
TANAKH
In the biblical narrative of Kings II, Elisha asks for a double portion of Elijah's spirit just before Elijah is taken away, symbolizing his desire to continue and expand Elijah's mission.
The Power of Music in Prophecy
TALMUD
Elisha's prophetic spirit could depart due to his emotional state, specifically anger, and music was used to restore it. The Talmud discusses how Elisha's prophetic abilities were influenced by his emotions and how music played a role in restoring his prophecy.
The Miracles of Elisha
MIDRASH
Elisha's miracles, such as making iron float, demonstrate the extraordinary power of biblical prophets. The Mekhilta DeRabbi Yishmael, a halachic midrash on Exodus, explores the miraculous deeds of prophets like Elisha.
Elisha's Miracles
COMMENTARY
Elisha performs twice as many miracles as his teacher, Eliyahu HaNavi, emphasizing the quantity of miracles over the level of prophecy. This contemporary study explores the interpretation of Elisha's miracles as understood by the sages of the Talmud.
The Youths Who Taunted Elisha
TALMUD
The youths who taunted Elisha were devoid of mitzvot and faith, leading to their disrespectful behavior. The Talmudic tractate Sotah explores the moral and spiritual deficiencies of these youths, explaining their actions in the context of their lack of mitzvot and faith.
The Consequences of Greed
TALMUD
Gehazi's greed and deceit led to severe consequences, affecting not only him but also his descendants. The Jerusalem Talmud discusses the story of Naaman and Gehazi, emphasizing the moral and ethical lessons derived from Gehazi's actions.
Miracles Through Prophetic Actions
JEWISH THOUGHT
The story of Naaman and Elisha illustrates how actions commanded by a prophet, even if they seem irrational, can lead to miraculous outcomes and recognition of divine power. Rabbi Nissim of Gerona, in his 14th-century sermons, explores the themes of faith and divine providence through the lens of Torah commandments.
Surpassing the Master
CHASIDUT
A student can surpass the master in achievements, but these accomplishments are still rooted in the master's strength and spirit. Using the example of Elijah and Elisha, Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, a prominent Hasidic master, explores the profound relationship between a student and teacher, emphasizing the Hasidic value of spiritual mentorship.
Elisha's Prophecy Unveiled
TALMUD
The principle of measure for measure (middah k'neged middah) in divine justice is vividly illustrated by the punishment of the officer who doubted Elisha's prophecy. Rabbi Shmuel bar Naḥmani's teaching in the Talmud demonstrates how disbelief in divine prophecy can lead to direct and fitting consequences.
Elisha's Miraculous Compassion
SECOND TEMPLE
Elisha's miracles demonstrate his compassion and ability to solve everyday problems, making his story both relatable and inspiring. Josephus, in his historical work 'The Antiquities of the Jews,' recounts how Elisha provided miraculous assistance to a widow in financial distress.
Elijah's Return to Elisha
JEWISH THOUGHT
Elijah's appearance to Elisha after being taken away is a fascinating aspect of their prophetic relationship. Rabbi Joseph Albo, in his 15th-century philosophical work Sefer HaIkkarim, delves into the nuances of biblical wording and rabbinic interpretation to support this claim.
Elisha's Integrity and Divine Service
COMMENTARY
Elisha's refusal to accept gifts, even when implored, highlights his unwavering integrity and dedication to divine service. This narrative from the Tanakh demonstrates the ethical standards and spiritual commitment of the prophet Elisha, following the tradition of his mentor, Elijah.
The Miracle of Privacy
COMMENTARY
The necessity of privacy and respect for the miracle is crucial, as it cannot occur in the presence of others. The Tze'enah Ure'enah, a late 16th-century Yiddish commentary, makes Jewish texts accessible to those not fluent in Hebrew, blending biblical texts with rabbinic teachings.
Timeless Lessons from Elisha
COMMENTARY
Elisha's stories offer timeless moral and ethical lessons about virtue, goodness, and the ultimate triumph over evil. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, in his series 'Covenant and Conversation,' delves into the narratives of the prophet Elisha, emphasizing their moral dimensions rather than just their miraculous aspects.
Elisha and the Jar of Oil
KABBALAH
The principle that blessings do not rest upon an empty matter is vividly illustrated through Elisha's miraculous interaction with the widow and the jar of oil. The Zohar, a central text of Jewish mysticism, uses this story to delve into deeper spiritual truths and the nature of divine blessings.
Devotion Over Worldly Affairs
JEWISH THOUGHT
The disciples of the prophets in Elisha's time renounced worldly affairs and neglected their physical well-being to devote themselves entirely to God. In the 11th-century ethical work, Duties of the Heart, Bachya ibn Pekudah explores the importance of spiritual devotion over material pursuits, using the story of Elisha and Eliyahu (Elijah) as an example.
A Chamber for Elisha
TALMUD
The hospitality and care shown by the woman from Shunem towards Elisha offers a profound lesson in kindness and care. The Talmud in tractate Berakhot recounts how the woman from Shunem prepared a special chamber for Elisha, complete with a bed, table, stool, and candlestick.
Prophet Elisha and the Shunammite woman on Mt. Carmel. Gerbrand van den Eeckhout, 1649
Prophet Elisha and the Shunammite woman on Mt. Carmel. Gerbrand van den Eeckhout, 1649
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