1 Kings 18:1
1 Kings 18:1 in Multiple Translations
After a long time, in the third year of the drought, the word of the LORD came to Elijah: “Go and present yourself to Ahab, and I will send rain upon the face of the earth.”
And it came to pass after many days, that the word of the LORD came to Elijah in the third year, saying, Go, shew thyself unto Ahab; and I will send rain upon the earth.
And it came to pass after many days, that the word of Jehovah came to Elijah, in the third year, saying, Go, show thyself unto Ahab; and I will send rain upon the earth.
Now after a long time, the word of the Lord came to Elijah, in the third year, saying, Go and let Ahab see you, so that I may send rain on the earth.
Sometime later, during the third year, a message from the Lord came to Elijah: “Go and appear before Ahab, and I will send rain on the earth.”
After many dayes, the worde of the Lord came to Eliiah, in the third yeere, saying, Goe, shewe thy selfe vnto Ahab, and I will sende rayne vpon the earth.
And the days are many, and the word of Jehovah hath been unto Elijah in the third year, saying, 'Go, appear unto Ahab, and I give rain on the face of the ground;'
After many days, the LORD’s word came to Elijah, in the third year, saying, “Go, show yourself to Ahab; and I will send rain on the earth.”
And it came to pass after many days, that the word of the LORD came to Elijah in the third year, saying, Go, show thyself to Ahab; and I will send rain upon the earth.
After many days the word of the Lord came to Elias, in the third year, saying: Go and shew thyself to Achab, that I may give rain upon the face of the earth.
For almost three years there was no rain in Samaria. Then Yahweh said this to Elijah: “Go and meet with King Ahab and tell him that I will soon send rain.”
Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Kings 18:1
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
1 Kings 18:1 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יְהִי֙
יָמִ֣ים
רַבִּ֔ים
וּ/דְבַר
יְהוָ֗ה
הָיָה֙
אֶל
אֵ֣לִיָּ֔הוּ
בַּ/שָּׁנָ֥ה
הַ/שְּׁלִישִׁ֖ית
לֵ/אמֹ֑ר
לֵ֚ךְ
הֵרָאֵ֣ה
אֶל
אַחְאָ֔ב
וְ/אֶתְּנָ֥ה
מָטָ֖ר
עַל
פְּנֵ֥י
הָ/אֲדָמָֽה
וַ/יְהִי֙
hâyâh
H1961
to be
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
יָמִ֣ים
yôwm
H3117
day
N-mp
רַבִּ֔ים
rab
H7227
many
Adj
וּ/דְבַר
dâbâr
H1697
Chronicles
Conj | N-ms
יְהוָ֗ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
The Lord
N-proper
הָיָה֙
hâyâh
H1961
to be
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
אֵ֣לִיָּ֔הוּ
ʼÊlîyâh
H452
Elijah
N-proper
בַּ/שָּׁנָ֥ה
shâneh
H8141
year
Prep | N-fs
הַ/שְּׁלִישִׁ֖ית
shᵉlîyshîy
H7992
third
Art | Adj
לֵ/אמֹ֑ר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
לֵ֚ךְ
yâlak
H3212
to walk
V-Qal-Impv-2ms
הֵרָאֵ֣ה
râʼâh
H7200
Provider
V-Niphal-Impv-2ms
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
אַחְאָ֔ב
ʼAchʼâb
H256
Ahab
N-proper
וְ/אֶתְּנָ֥ה
nâthan
H5414
to give
Conj | V-Qal-1cs
מָטָ֖ר
mâṭar
H4306
rain
N-ms
עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
פְּנֵ֥י
pânîym
H6440
face
N-cp
הָ/אֲדָמָֽה
ʼădâmâh
H127
land
Art | N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Kings 18:1
וַ/יְהִי֙
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.
Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.
יָמִ֣ים
yôwm
H3117
"day"
N-mp
The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow
Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.
רַבִּ֔ים
rab
H7227
"many"
Adj
This Hebrew word means a chief or captain, someone in charge. It is used in 2 Samuel 23:19 to describe a great and powerful man. The idea is one of leadership and authority.
Definition: adj 1) much, many, great 1a) much 1b) many 1c) abounding in 1d) more numerous than 1e) abundant, enough 1f) great 1g) strong 1h) greater than adv 1i) much, exceedingly
Usage: Occurs in 443 OT verses. KJV: (in) abound(-undance, -ant, -antly), captain, elder, enough, exceedingly, full, great(-ly, man, one), increase, long (enough, (time)), (do, have) many(-ifold, things, a time), (ship-)master, mighty, more, (too, very) much, multiply(-tude), officer, often(-times), plenteous, populous, prince, process (of time), suffice(-lent). See also: Genesis 6:5; 1 Kings 11:1; Psalms 3:2.
וּ/דְבַר
dâbâr
H1697
"Chronicles"
Conj | N-ms
A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.
Definition: This name means word, speaking
Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.
יְהוָ֗ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
"The Lord"
N-proper
Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.
הָיָה֙
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.
Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
אֵ֣לִיָּ֔הוּ
ʼÊlîyâh
H452
"Elijah"
N-proper
Elijah means my God is Jehovah, referring to the famous prophet who lived during King Ahab's reign. He is also the name of two other Israelites mentioned in the Bible. Elijah is known for his bravery and faith in God.
Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Ezr.10.26 § Elijah or Eliah = "my God is Jehovah" or "Yah(u) is God" 1) the great prophet of the reign of Ahab 2) Benjamite son of Jeroham 3) a son of Elam with foreign wife during exile 4) a son of Harim, and priest, with foreign wife during exile
Usage: Occurs in 65 OT verses. KJV: Elijah, Eliah. See also: 1 Kings 17:1; 1 Kings 19:19; Malachi 3:23.
בַּ/שָּׁנָ֥ה
shâneh
H8141
"year"
Prep | N-fs
This word also means a year, like when Abraham was 100 years old in Genesis 21. It is used to describe a period of time, age, or a lifetime.
Definition: 1) year 1a) as division of time 1b) as measure of time 1c) as indication of age 1d) a lifetime (of years of life) Aramaic equivalent: she.nah (שְׁנָה "year" H8140)
Usage: Occurs in 647 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] whole age, [idiom] long, [phrase] old, year([idiom] -ly). See also: Genesis 1:14; Genesis 47:28; Numbers 7:35.
הַ/שְּׁלִישִׁ֖ית
shᵉlîyshîy
H7992
"third"
Art | Adj
This Hebrew word means third in a sequence, like a third day or year. It is used in the Bible to describe time, rank, or quantity, such as the third day of creation in Genesis.
Definition: 1) third, one third, third part, third time 1a) ordinal number
Usage: Occurs in 94 OT verses. KJV: third (part, rank, time), three (years old). See also: Genesis 1:13; 1 Kings 22:2; Isaiah 15:5.
לֵ/אמֹ֑ר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
לֵ֚ךְ
yâlak
H3212
"to walk"
V-Qal-Impv-2ms
To walk or go, this verb means to move from one place to another, used literally or figuratively, as in to live or die, or to lead someone.
Definition: 1) to go, walk, come 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away 1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.) 1b) (Hiphil) to lead, bring, lead away, carry, cause to walk
Usage: Occurs in 936 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] again, away, bear, bring, carry (away), come (away), depart, flow, [phrase] follow(-ing), get (away, hence, him), (cause to, made) go (away, -ing, -ne, one's way, out), grow, lead (forth), let down, march, prosper, [phrase] pursue, cause to run, spread, take away (-journey), vanish, (cause to) walk(-ing), wax, [idiom] be weak. See also: Genesis 3:14; Exodus 5:8; Deuteronomy 28:14.
הֵרָאֵ֣ה
râʼâh
H7200
"Provider"
V-Niphal-Impv-2ms
The Hebrew word for provider means to see or look after, and is used to describe God's care for his people. It appears in various forms throughout the Bible, including in Genesis and other books.
Definition: (Lord will) Provide, cause to be seen. This name means to see, look at, inspect, look after
Usage: Occurs in 1206 OT verses. KJV: advise self, appear, approve, behold, [idiom] certainly, consider, discern, (make to) enjoy, have experience, gaze, take heed, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] joyfully, lo, look (on, one another, one on another, one upon another, out, up, upon), mark, meet, [idiom] be near, perceive, present, provide, regard, (have) respect, (fore-, cause to, let) see(-r, -m, one another), shew (self), [idiom] sight of others, (e-) spy, stare, [idiom] surely, [idiom] think, view, visions. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 41:41; Exodus 33:13.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
אַחְאָ֔ב
ʼAchʼâb
H256
"Ahab"
N-proper
Ahab was a king of Israel who lived a long time ago. He was married to a queen named Jezebel and did many bad things. The prophet Jeremiah also wrote about a different man named Ahab.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at Jer.29.21; son of: Kolaiah (H6964H) § Ahab = "father's brother" 1) king of Israel, son of Omri, husband of Jezebel 2) false prophet executed by Nebuchadrezzar, time of Jeremiah
Usage: Occurs in 81 OT verses. KJV: Ahab. See also: 1 Kings 16:28; 1 Kings 22:40; Jeremiah 29:21.
וְ/אֶתְּנָ֥ה
nâthan
H5414
"to give"
Conj | V-Qal-1cs
This word means to give, put, or set something, with a wide range of applications. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, describing God's actions and human interactions. The word is used to convey giving, selling, or exchanging something.
Definition: : give/deliver/send/produce 1) to give, put, set 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to give, bestow, grant, permit, ascribe, employ, devote, consecrate, dedicate, pay wages, sell, exchange, lend, commit, entrust, give over, deliver up, yield produce, occasion, produce, requite to, report, mention, utter, stretch out, extend 1a2) to put, set, put on, put upon, set, appoint, assign, designate 1a3) to make, constitute 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be given, be bestowed, be provided, be entrusted to, be granted to, be permitted, be issued, be published, be uttered, be assigned 1b2) to be set, be put, be made, be inflicted 1c) (Hophal) 1c1) to be given, be bestowed, be given up, be delivered up 1c2) to be put upon
Usage: Occurs in 1816 OT verses. KJV: add, apply, appoint, ascribe, assign, [idiom] avenge, [idiom] be (healed), bestow, bring (forth, hither), cast, cause, charge, come, commit, consider, count, [phrase] cry, deliver (up), direct, distribute, do, [idiom] doubtless, [idiom] without fail, fasten, frame, [idiom] get, give (forth, over, up), grant, hang (up), [idiom] have, [idiom] indeed, lay (unto charge, up), (give) leave, lend, let (out), [phrase] lie, lift up, make, [phrase] O that, occupy, offer, ordain, pay, perform, place, pour, print, [idiom] pull, put (forth), recompense, render, requite, restore, send (out), set (forth), shew, shoot forth (up), [phrase] sing, [phrase] slander, strike, (sub-) mit, suffer, [idiom] surely, [idiom] take, thrust, trade, turn, utter, [phrase] weep, [phrase] willingly, [phrase] withdraw, [phrase] would (to) God, yield. See also: Genesis 1:17; Genesis 40:21; Exodus 30:12.
מָטָ֖ר
mâṭar
H4306
"rain"
N-ms
This noun simply means rain, describing the water that falls from the sky. It is a common weather phenomenon in the Bible, often used to symbolize God's blessing or judgment. Rain is essential for life and growth in the biblical world.
Definition: rain
Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: rain. See also: Exodus 9:33; 2 Chronicles 7:13; Psalms 72:6.
עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
פְּנֵ֥י
pânîym
H6440
"face"
N-cp
This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.
Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of
Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.
הָ/אֲדָמָֽה
ʼădâmâh
H127
"land"
Art | N-fs
This Hebrew word refers to the earth or soil, often describing the ground as a source of sustenance. It is used to describe the physical earth, a plot of land, or even a whole country. The KJV translates it as 'country', 'earth', or 'land'.
Definition: : soil 1) ground, land 1a) ground (as general, tilled, yielding sustenance) 1b) piece of ground, a specific plot of land 1c) earth substance (for building or constructing) 1d) ground as earth's visible surface 1e) land, territory, country 1f) whole inhabited earth 1g) city in Naphtali
Usage: Occurs in 211 OT verses. KJV: country, earth, ground, husband(-man) (-ry), land. See also: Genesis 1:25; 1 Kings 8:40; Psalms 49:12.
Study Notes — 1 Kings 18:1
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 1 Kings 18:1 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 1 Kings 18:1
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Kings 18:1
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Kings 18:1
- Trapp's Commentary on 1 Kings 18:1
- Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Kings 18:1
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Kings 18:1
- Cambridge Bible on 1 Kings 18:1
- Barnes' Notes on 1 Kings 18:1
- Whedon's Commentary on 1 Kings 18:1
- Sermons on 1 Kings 18:1
Context — Elijah’s Message to Ahab
1After a long time, in the third year of the drought, the word of the LORD came to Elijah: “Go and present yourself to Ahab, and I will send rain upon the face of the earth.”
2So Elijah went to present himself to Ahab. The famine was severe in Samaria, 3and Ahab summoned Obadiah, who was in charge of the palace. (Now Obadiah greatly feared the LORD,Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Luke 4:25 | But I tell you truthfully that there were many widows in Israel in the time of Elijah, when the sky was shut for three and a half years and great famine swept over all the land. |
| 2 | James 5:17 | Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. |
| 3 | Deuteronomy 28:12 | The LORD will open the heavens, His abundant storehouse, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations, but borrow from none. |
| 4 | 1 Kings 17:1 | Now Elijah the Tishbite, who was among the settlers of Gilead, said to Ahab, “As surely as the LORD lives—the God of Israel before whom I stand—there will be neither dew nor rain in these years except at my word!” |
| 5 | 1 Kings 18:15–40 | Then Elijah said, “As surely as the LORD of Hosts lives, before whom I stand, I will present myself to Ahab today.” So Obadiah went to inform Ahab, who went to meet Elijah. When Ahab saw Elijah, he said to him, “Is that you, O troubler of Israel?” “I have not troubled Israel,” Elijah replied, “but you and your father’s house have, for you have forsaken the commandments of the LORD and have followed the Baals. Now summon all Israel to meet me on Mount Carmel, along with the four hundred and fifty prophets of Baal and the four hundred prophets of Asherah who eat at Jezebel’s table.” So Ahab summoned all the Israelites and assembled the prophets on Mount Carmel. Then Elijah approached all the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow Him. But if Baal is God, follow him.” But the people did not answer a word. Then Elijah said to the people, “I am the only remaining prophet of the LORD, but Baal has four hundred and fifty prophets. Get two bulls for us. Let the prophets of Baal choose one bull for themselves, cut it into pieces, and place it on the wood but not light the fire. And I will prepare the other bull and place it on the wood but not light the fire. Then you may call on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of the LORD. The God who answers by fire, He is God.” And all the people answered, “What you say is good.” Then Elijah said to the prophets of Baal, “Since you are so numerous, choose for yourselves one bull and prepare it first. Then call on the name of your god, but do not light the fire.” And they took the bull that was given them, prepared it, and called on the name of Baal from morning until noon, shouting, “O Baal, answer us!” But there was no sound, and no one answered as they leaped around the altar they had made. At noon Elijah began to taunt them, saying, “Shout louder, for he is a god! Perhaps he is deep in thought, or occupied, or on a journey. Perhaps he is sleeping and must be awakened!” So they shouted louder and cut themselves with knives and lances, as was their custom, until the blood gushed over them. Midday passed, and they kept on raving until the time of the evening sacrifice. But there was no response; no one answered, no one paid attention. Then Elijah said to all the people, “Come near to me.” So all the people approached him, and he repaired the altar of the LORD that had been torn down. And Elijah took twelve stones, one for each tribe of the sons of Jacob, to whom the word of the LORD had come and said, “Israel shall be your name.” And with the stones, Elijah built an altar in the name of the LORD. Then he dug a trench around the altar large enough to hold two seahs of seed. Next, he arranged the wood, cut up the bull, placed it on the wood, and said, “Fill four waterpots and pour the water on the offering and on the wood.” “Do it a second time,” he said, and they did it a second time. “Do it a third time,” he said, and they did it a third time. So the water ran down around the altar and even filled the trench. At the time of the evening sacrifice, Elijah the prophet approached the altar and said, “O LORD, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known this day that You are God in Israel and that I am Your servant and have done all these things at Your command. Answer me, O LORD! Answer me, so that this people will know that You, the LORD, are God, and that You have turned their hearts back again.” Then the fire of the LORD fell and consumed the sacrifice, the wood, the stones, and the dust, and it licked up the water in the trench. When all the people saw this, they fell facedown and said, “The LORD, He is God! The LORD, He is God!” Then Elijah ordered them, “Seize the prophets of Baal! Do not let a single one escape.” So they seized them, and Elijah brought them down to the Kishon Valley and slaughtered them there. |
| 6 | 1 Kings 18:2 | So Elijah went to present himself to Ahab. The famine was severe in Samaria, |
| 7 | Leviticus 26:4 | I will give you rains in their season, and the land will yield its produce, and the trees of the field will bear their fruit. |
| 8 | Joel 2:23 | Be glad, O children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God, for He has given you the autumn rains for your vindication. He sends you showers, both autumn and spring rains, as before. |
| 9 | 1 Kings 17:15 | So she went and did according to the word of Elijah, and there was food every day for Elijah and the woman and her household. |
| 10 | 1 Kings 17:7 | Some time later, however, the brook dried up because there had been no rain in the land. |
1 Kings 18:1 Summary
This verse tells us that after a long time of drought and famine, God spoke to Elijah and told him to go and see King Ahab, because He was going to send rain to the earth. This shows us that God is in control of all things, including the weather, and that He can bring life and refreshment to those who are thirsty and hungry (as seen in Isaiah 41:17-20). Elijah's obedience to God's command is an example to us of trusting in God's plan and timing, even when things seem difficult or uncertain. By trusting in God, we can experience His provision and care, just like the Israelites did in the wilderness (as seen in Exodus 16:4-5).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the third year of the drought in this verse?
The third year of the drought signifies a period of severe testing and trial for the people of Israel, much like the wilderness wanderings of the Israelites in the book of Exodus, as seen in Exodus 16:35, where they were sustained by God's provision of manna.
Why did God instruct Elijah to present himself to Ahab?
God instructed Elijah to present himself to Ahab because it was time for the drought to end and for God's judgment on Israel's idolatry to be lifted, as seen in Deuteronomy 11:16-17, where God warns against idolatry and its consequences.
How does this verse relate to the larger story of Elijah and the kingdom of Israel?
This verse marks a turning point in the story of Elijah, as he is now being called to confront King Ahab and to announce the end of the drought, which had been a judgment from God, as seen in 1 Kings 17:1, where Elijah first announces the drought.
What does this verse teach us about God's sovereignty over nature?
This verse teaches us that God is sovereign over all of nature, including the weather, and that He can bring life-giving rain or withering drought, as seen in Psalm 104:14, where God is praised for providing for all living things.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that God has spoken to me in the past, and how have I responded to His voice?
- How can I, like Elijah, trust in God's timing and plan, even when the circumstances seem difficult or uncertain?
- What are some areas in my life where I am experiencing a kind of 'drought', and how can I trust God to bring refreshment and renewal?
- How can I, like Elijah, be a faithful messenger of God's word to those around me, even if it is uncomfortable or challenging?
Gill's Exposition on 1 Kings 18:1
And it came to pass after many days,.... When two years and more were gone from the time the drought and famine began; or rather from the time of the prophets departure to the brook Cherith, which
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Kings 18:1
And it came to pass after many days, that the word of the LORD came to Elijah in the third year, saying, Go, shew thyself unto Ahab; and I will send rain upon the earth. The third year.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Kings 18:1
1 KINGS CHAPTER 18 Elijah in the extremity of famine is sent to Ahab; meeteth good Obadiah, ; chargeth him to certify the king of his coming: he bringeth Ahab to him, . He reproveth Ahab and the congregation: by fire from heaven convinceth Baal’ s prophets: they are slain, . Elijah by prayer obtaineth rain; runs before Ahab to Jezreel, . In the third year; either, 1. From the time when he went to hide himself by the brook Cherith; six months before which time the famine might begin, though it was not yet come to extremity. And so this being in or towards the end of the third year, it makes up these three years and six months, . Or, 2. From the time of his going to Sarepta, which probably was a year after the famine began; See Poole ""; and so this might be in the middle of the third year, which also makes up the three years and six months. Show thyself unto Ahab; to acquaint him with the cause of this judgment, , and to advise him to remove it, and upon that condition to promise him rain. I will send rain upon the earth, according to thy word and prayer, which thou shalt make for it.
Thus God takes care to maintain the honour and authority of his prophet, and in judgment remembers mercy to Israel for the sake of the holy seed yet left among them, who suffered in this common calamity.
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Kings 18:1
1 Kings 18:1 And it came to pass [after] many days, that the word of the LORD came to Elijah in the third year, saying, Go, shew thyself unto Ahab; and I will send rain upon the earth.Ver. 1. After many days,] i.e., After three years and six months’ time of famine: which to the distressed Israelites seemed a long while. In the third year.] Of his abode at Zarephath. And I will send rain.] Heb., I will give. Rain is a gracious gift of God. See on Zechariah 10:1.
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Kings 18:1
(1) The third year.—By the accurate tradition, preserved in Luke 4:25, James 5:17, it would seem that the drought lasted “three years and six months.” If, therefore, the expression in the text is to be taken literally, it must be reckoned from the beginning of the visit to Zarephath.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Kings 18:1
CHAPTER XVIII Elijah is commanded by the Lord to show himself to Ahab, 1, 2. Ahab, and Obadiah his steward, search the land to find provender for the cattle, 3-6. Obadiah meets Elijah, who commands him to inform Ahab that he is ready to present himself before him, 7-15. Elijah and Ahab meet, 16-18. Elijah proposes that the four hundred and fifty priests of Baal should be gathered together at Mount Carmel; that they should offer a sacrifice to their god, and he to Jehovah; and the God who should send down fire to consume the sacrifice should be acknowledged as the true God, 19-24. The proposal is accepted, and the priests of Baal call in vain upon their god through the whole day, 25-29. Elijah offers his sacrifice, prays to Gods and fire comes down from heaven and consumes it; whereupon the people acknowledge Jehovah to be the true God, and slay all the prophets of Baal, 30-40. Elijah promises Ahab that there shall be immediate rain; it comes accordingly, and Ahab and Elijah come to Jezreel, 41-46. NOTES ON CHAP. XVIII Verse 1.
After many days - in the third year] We learn from our Lord, Lu 4:25, that the drought which brought on the famine in Israel lasted three years and six months. St. James, James 5:17, gives it the same duration. Probably Elijah spent six months at the brook Cherith, and three years with the widow at Sarepta. I will send rain upon the earth.] The word האדמה haadamah should be translated the ground or the land, as it is probable that this drought did not extend beyond the land of Judea.
Cambridge Bible on 1 Kings 18:1
Chap. 1 Kings 18:1-6. Ahab and Obadiah search the land for grass. Elijah goes to meet Ahab (Not in Chronicles) 1. in the third year] According to the tradition preserved in the New Testament (Luke 4:25; James 5:17) these three years cannot be reckoned from the beginning of the drought: for that is said to have lasted for three years and six months. The Jewish tradition reckons this third year to be the third year after the restoration of the widow’s son. shew thyself unto Ahab; and I will send rain] Hence the LXX. on 1 Kings 17:1 explains that the rain would not come εἰμὴφανέντοςαὐτοῦ. See note there.
Barnes' Notes on 1 Kings 18:1
The third year - i. e., in the third year of his sojourn with the widow.
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Kings 18:1
ELIJAH’S MEETING WITH AHAB, AND CONTEST WITH THE FALSE , 1 Kings 18:1-40. 1. In the third year — Some time during the third year of Elijah’s stay at Zarephath.
Sermons on 1 Kings 18:1
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Where Are the Elijahs of God by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher talks about a man who lived a remarkable life despite not having any money or support. This man was able to subdue kingdoms and bring righteousness thr |
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(1 Kings) Elijah's Early Ministry by David Guzik | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Elijah and the widow's son from the Bible. The preacher highlights how the widow's faith in God deepens after witnessing the mir |
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What Spiritual Awakening Means to the Local Church by Richard Sipley | In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a man who had robbed a house but later became a Christian. The man felt convicted and decided to return to the house to make thing |
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Life and Times of Elijah - Part 2 by Stephen Kaung | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having single-minded devotion to God. He references the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus teaches that if our eyes are sing |
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The Love of Money - Part 1 by Zac Poonen | This sermon delves into what Jesus taught about money, emphasizing the importance of understanding Jesus' teachings on earning, saving, and giving money. Jesus highlighted the conc |
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(Elijah Legacy) 4. Confronting Ahab by David Davis | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Elijah and how he obeyed the word of the Lord. Elijah was instructed by God to confront King Ahab and declare that there would b |
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Session 5: John 17 by Joseph Carroll | Joseph Carroll emphasizes the importance of receiving a direct word from God before taking action, using Elijah's obedience to God's command as a key example. He explains that God' |