These are the Days of Elijah! BUT THESE ARE ALSO THE DAYS OF ELISHA – SALVATION COMES FROM GOD!  The SPIRIT OF GOD is moving across the Earth.  At the same time paganism and idolatry are running rampant.  Just like in the 9th Century BC in Israel. For WHERE SIN DOTH ABOUND GRACE DOTH MUCH MORE ABOUND>

Our entire Earth is filled with division, conflict and separation.  Do you know the CAUSE?

Elijah’s Journey to the Day He Was Taken Up  –
Elijah and Elisha traveled together Gilgal – Bethel – Jericho – Jordan – Elisha traveled solo to Mt. Carmel – Samaria

The story of Elijah’s ascension to heaven is recorded in 2 Kings 2:1–12. It begins at Gilgal, a place meaning “circle of stones,” and ends with Elijah being taken up in a whirlwind. Here’s the sequence of events and the likely locations:

1. Gilgal

Gilgal means “rolling” or “a rolling away,” symbolizing remembrance, consecration, and the removal of past reproach in the Bible. Literal Meaning The name Gilgal comes from the Hebrew verb galal, which means “to roll” or “to roll away” Abarim Publications+1. Some interpretations also render it as “circle of stones” or “wheel,” reflecting the memorial stones set up by the Israelites Wikipedia+1. The term conveys both a physical and symbolic action of rolling away, often associated with removing shame, reproach, or past burdens jesusplusnothing.com. Biblical Significance Gilgal is mentioned multiple times in the Bible, most prominently in the Book of Joshua. It was the first campsite of the Israelites after crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land GotQuestions.org+2. Key events at Gilgal include: Memorial of the Jordan Crossing: Twelve stones were taken from the river and set up at Gilgal to remind the Israelites and future generations of God’s miraculous power in stopping the Jordan River GotQuestions.org+1. Circumcision and Covenant Renewal: The Israelites who had been born during the wilderness wanderings were circumcised at Gilgal, symbolizing the removal of the “reproach of Egypt” and their consecration as God’s people GotQuestions.org+1. Celebration of Passover: The first Passover in the Promised Land was observed at Gilgal, marking a spiritual and communal renewal jesusplusnothing.com. Symbolic Meaning Gilgal represents spiritual renewal and liberation. The act of rolling away the reproach of Egypt signifies leaving behind past failures, sins, or oppression, and stepping into a new life under God’s covenant  jesusplusnothing.com. It is both a historical and theological symbol of God’s deliverance, consecration, and the beginning of a new chapter for Israel BibleAsk+1. Summary In essence, Gilgal means “rolling” or “a rolling away” and serves as a place of remembrance, consecration, and spiritual renewal. It commemorates God’s miraculous acts, the covenant with His people, and the transition from past oppression to a new life in the Promised Land GotQuestions.org+2.

What is the importance of Gilgal in the Bible? Answer There are at least two locations named Gilgal in the Bible. There was a Gilgal just west of the Jordan River near Jericho (Joshua 5:9, 13) and one nearer Bethel (2 Kings 2:1–2). Some scholars believe there was a third place named Gilgal near Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal (Deuteronomy 11:29–30). The meaning of the name Gilgal is “rolling.” Gilgal is not mentioned in the New Testament, but the Old Testament depicts it as follows: Gilgal was a place of memorial. Gilgal is significant in the Bible as serving as a place of memorial for the Israelites, to remind them of what God had done. After miraculously crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land, the Israelites set up twelve stones taken from the river, representing the twelve tribes, to serve as a reminder to the children of Israel (Joshua 4:19–20). The stones at Gilgal would remind the Israelites and their descendants of the power of God and how He had dried up the Jordan River so they could walk through it, just as He had done to the Red Sea (Joshua 4:21–24). The stones at Gilgal would serve a teaching purpose to the younger generation, so that they too could remember what the Lord had done for them (Joshua 4:21–22). Gilgal was a place of consecration and change. It was at Gilgal that the Israelites were circumcised and celebrated their first Passover in the Promised Land (Joshua 5:7–8, 10). The children of those who had wandered in the desert had not yet been circumcised, and it was time for them to take the sign of the covenant and be set apart as God’s people. This time of circumcision is what gave Gilgal its name, for the Lord said He had “rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you” (Joshua 5:9). The “reproach” was the Israelites’ uncircumcised condition; the “rolling away” of that reproach set them apart, once and for all, from the Egyptian people and way of life. After the Israelites celebrated the Passover and began to eat the produce of their new land, the manna that the Lord had provided the Israelites during their years of wandering stopped. This also happened while they were camped at Gilgal (Joshua 5:11–12). A place of worship. Years later, Gilgal was still a place of worship to offer sacrifices to the Lord, and it was the place where Saul was publicly crowned the first king of Israel (1 Samuel 10:8; 11:15). Unfortunately, as the Israelites slipped into idolatry, Gilgal became connected with the worship of false gods (Hosea 4:15; Amos 4:4). A place of judgment. It was at Gilgal that Samuel rebuked Saul and prophesied of his loss of the kingdom (1 Samuel 13:13–14). Saul had been instructed to stay at Gilgal and wait for Samuel before offering sacrifices to the Lord there (1 Samuel 10:8; 13:8). Rather than obey, Saul took the matter in his own hands and sacrificed to the Lord at Gilgal (1 Samuel 13:9–12). When Samuel arrived, he announced judgment on Saul for his disobedience, stating that Saul’s kingdom and position would not endure (1 Samuel 13:14). A place of prophets. Gilgal was one of three cities where Samuel regularly held court as the judge of Israel (1 Samuel 7:16). It seems that Elijah and Elisha spent some time at a place called Gilgal before Elijah’s departure to heaven (2 Kings 2:1–2). This is most likely not the same Gilgal as where Joshua had camped; rather, it is a place nearer Bethel in central Canaan. Sometime after Elijah was gone, Elisha returned to Gilgal where many other prophets resided (2 Kings 4:38). There, he found that Gilgal was in the midst of a famine and so made sure the prophets were fed. He also miraculously fed around a hundred other residents (2 Kings 4:38–44). Gilgal was a significant place in that it reminded the Israelites of their heritage, served as a place of worship, and was visited by kings and prophets.

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2. Bethel

• Located about 10 miles northeast of Gilgilia, in the hill country of Ephraim.
• Prophets there asked Elisha about Elijah’s departure, and Elisha affirmed his commitment to follow Elijah ibiblemaps.com+1.
  

  Bethel means “House of God,” derived from the Hebrew words beth (house) and El (God). Linguistic Origin The name Bethel comes from the Hebrewבֵּית־אֵל (Bēṯ ʾĒl), literally translating to “House of God” or “House of El” (El being a name for God) Etymonline+2. The word beth means “house,” while El refers to God, making the name a direct reference to a sacred dwelling place Abarim Publications+1. In Hebrew, beth is also the second letter of the alphabet, which was later borrowed into Greek as beta Etymonline. Biblical Significance Bethel first appears in the Bible in Genesis 12:8, where Abraham built an altar to God after leaving Egypt etymologyworld.com. The site gained further prominence in Jacob’s story: while fleeing Esau, Jacob dreams of a ladder reaching to heaven and consecrates the location, renaming it Bethel to signify God’s presence (Genesis 28:10-22) Bible Hub+1. The city later became a significant religious center in Israel, associated with worship, prophecy, and pilgrimage Abarim Publications+1. Prophets like Amos delivered messages from Bethel, emphasizing its role as a spiritual and moral focal point etymologyworld.com. Historical and Modern Context Historically, Bethel was located on the border of the tribes of Benjamin and Ephraim, controlling a strategic route in central Israel Bible Hub. Archaeological evidence identifies it with the modern village of Beitin in the West Bank, northeast of Ramallah Wikipedia+1. The name has also been adopted for various towns and religious institutions worldwide, reflecting its enduring spiritual significance Wikipedia. Symbolic Meaning Beyond its literal translation, Bethel symbolizes the dwelling place of God among His people, representing a site where divine presence and human communication with God intersect etymologyworld.com. It serves as both a historical and spiritual marker in Jewish and Christian traditions, highlighting continuity between biblical narratives and contemporary religious practice

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  Symbolism and Significance of Bethel in Elijah’s Story Bethel, meaning “house of God,” is a deeply symbolic location in the Old Testament, and its appearance in 2 Kings 2:2 carries both historical and theological weight. Historical and Covenant Significance Bethel was an early Israelite worship site, first mentioned in Genesis 12:8 when Abram pitched his tent there, and later in Jacob’s dream of the ladder to heaven (Genesis 28:16–17). Jacob declared, “Surely the LORD is in this place… this is none other than the house of God,” linking the site to God’s presence and covenant Bible Hub. Over centuries, Bethel became a place of both covenant renewal and apostasy—used as a judicial center under Samuel, fortified by Jeroboam I with a golden calf, and later condemned by prophets like Amos for idolatry Bible Hub. Symbolism in Elijah’s Journey In 2 Kings 2:2, Elijah’s itinerary—Gilgal → Bethel → Jericho → Jordan—traces Israel’s salvation history in reverse Bible Hub+1. Bethel, as a site of early covenant and later idolatry, symbolizes the nation’s cyclical pattern of faithfulness and rebellion. By stopping there, Elijah confronts the reader with the tension between God’s presence and the people’s idolatry. It also serves as a transition point before the climactic crossing of the Jordan, which evokes the Exodus entry into the Promised Land Bible Hub. Spiritual Meaning Bethel’s “house of God” name is covenantal language—God chooses to dwell with His people, foreshadowing both the tabernacle and the ultimate dwelling of God with humanity through Christ Bible Hub. In Elijah’s context, it becomes a place of spiritual reckoning: a reminder of God’s presence amid the nation’s moral decline. For Elisha, Bethel is the first test of loyalty—Elijah asks him to stay, but Elisha vows, “As the Lord lives… I will not leave you,” affirming his commitment to God’s servant bibleverseexplained.com. Summary of Symbolism Covenant memory: Early Israel’s encounter with God’s presence. Warning of idolatry: Site of Jeroboam’s golden calf, representing apostasy. Spiritual transition: Between Elijah’s ministry and the Exodus-like crossing of the Jordan. Test of faith: First checkpoint in Elisha’s vow to remain with Elijah. In this way, Bethel in Elijah’s story is not just a geographical marker but a theological and symbolic anchor—connecting Israel’s past, present struggles, and the promise of God’s dwelling among His people.

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3. Jericho

• On the Jordan River, about 15 miles east of Bethel.
• Another group of prophets asked Elisha the same question, and again Elisha said he would not leave Elijah ibiblemaps.com+1.
  

  The name Jericho likely derives from Hebrew or Canaanite roots, meaning either “fragrant” or “moon,” reflecting its historical and religious significance. Hebrew and Canaanite Origins In Biblical Hebrew, Jericho is recorded as Yəriḥo (יְרִיחוֹ), and in Ugaritic as yrḫ. One widely accepted theory links the name to the Canaanite word rēḥ, meaning “fragrant,” which aligns with the city’s Biblical description as the “City of Palm Trees” and its abundance of palms, balsam, and rose gardens (BDB Theological Dictionary, NOBSE Study Bible) Abarim Publications+1. The Arabic name Arīḥā also preserves this meaning of “fragrant” Wikipedia. Palm Tree –In occult, esoteric, and magical traditions, the palm tree is far more than a tropical icon — it is a sacred symbol of life, resilience, and spiritual connection across millennia.In esoteric and magical contexts, the palm tree is a multifaceted emblem — a reminder of enduring strength, a symbol of divine favor, and a conduit between the earthly and the spiritual. It can be invoked in rituals, used as a protective symbol, or meditated upon as a metaphor for personal growth and transformation.  occult, esoteric and magic symbolism, and meaning of palm tree – Search Balsam, in its various forms—whether the aromatic resin from balsam trees, balsam fir, or other aromatic plants—has deep roots in both spiritual and occult traditions. Across cultures, it is valued for its healing, protective, and purifying properties, as well as its symbolic associations with divine connection, hope, and renewal. Spiritual and Occult Symbolism In many occult and esoteric traditions, balsam is seen as a bridge between the physical and spiritual worlds. Its soothing scent is believed to calm the mind, making it a popular choice in meditation and ritual spaces www.ourspiritanimal.com. Burning balsam in incense is thought to purify the environment, drive away negative energies, and attract positive vibrations www.ourspiritanimal.com. In some mystical systems, it is considered a spiritual cleanser, capable of harmonizing the body, mind, and spirit www.belleravenstar.com. The rose has long been more than a flower of beauty — in many traditions it has also been a symbol of secrecy, hidden knowledge, and mystical awakening. Many secret societies use the rose as a badge of hidden knowledge. Its thorns and petals together suggest beauty and danger, love and mystery — truths too sacred to be spoken aloud mysticryst.com. In grimoires and occult art, the rose appears as a protective and initiatory symbol, often linked to the heart and the mysteries of the cosmos. spacer Another interpretation connects Jericho to the Hebrew yareakh, meaning “moon” or “month,” possibly referencing an ancient moon cult or lunar deity, Yarikh, for whom the city may have been an early center of worship Abarim Publications+3. This theory is supported by Jones’ Dictionary of Old Testament Proper Names and other Biblical studies, suggesting the city’s name could signify “City of the Moon” Abarim Publications+1. Linguistic Evolution The name Jericho passed through several languages over time. In Ancient Greek, it appears as Ἰερῑχώ (Ierīkhṓ), in Latin as Ierīchō, and in Old English as Iericho, eventually becoming the modern English form wiktionary.org. These adaptations preserved the original phonetic structure while reflecting the linguistic conventions of each period. Cultural and Biblical Significance The dual etymology—fragrance and moon—may reflect the city’s historical importance both as a fertile oasis and as a religious center. Biblical texts reference Jericho as a fortified city with abundant natural resources, and its name may have symbolized both its physical characteristics and spiritual associations Abarim Publications+2. The city’s long history, dating back to Neolithic settlements, underscores the enduring significance of its name in both cultural and religious contexts Wikipedia+1. In summary, Jericho’s name embodies both natural and celestial symbolism, with interpretations ranging from “Place of Fragrance” to “City of the Moon,” reflecting its rich historical, religious, and linguistic heritage.

Paganism in Ancient Jericho Ancient Jericho, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, was a center of pagan religious practice long before the Israelites arrived. Archaeological and textual evidence suggests that its inhabitants worshipped moon deities and engaged in fertility and occult rituals. Moon Worship Origins The name Jericho is thought to derive from the root yrh, meaning “moon” in Canaanite Israel My Glory. Canaanite texts from Ugarit refer to a moon deity named yrh, indicating that Jericho was likely a place of moon worship Israel My Glory. This aligns with the city’s role as a religious and cultural hub in the ancient Near East. Fertility and Occult Practices The people of Jericho were described as idolaters who followed fertility and occult practices condemned in the Hebrew Bible (Leviticus 18:24–28; Deuteronomy 18:9–13) Israel My Glory. These practices included the veneration of idols, possibly linked to agricultural cycles and seasonal festivals, which were common in Canaanite religion. Archaeological Evidence Excavations, including those by Kathleen Kenyon in the 1950s, revealed a heavily fortified city with massive stone retaining walls and mud-brick walls Israel My Glory+1. The site’s strategic location near the Spring of Elisha and its repeated destruction and rebuilding suggest it was a politically and religiously significant center. The presence of monumental structures and ritual spaces supports the idea of Jericho as a place of worship and ceremonial activity. Cultural Context Jericho’s pagan religious life was part of a broader Canaanite religious landscape, where cities often served as centers for pantheon worship, festivals, and possibly temple complexes. Its destruction by fire at the end of the 15th century BCE, as confirmed by recent re-evaluations of the archaeological record, coincided with the biblical account of the Israelites’ conquest Israel My Glory. Summary In ancient times, Jericho was not only a fortified city but also a pagan religious center, dedicated to moon worship and fertility rituals. Its archaeological remains and textual references confirm that the city’s inhabitants were deeply embedded in the religious traditions of the Canaanite world before the Israelites’ arrival. Pagan Worship in Jericho at the Time of Elijah’s Ascension By the time of Elijah’s ministry (9th century B.C.), Jericho had been conquered by the Israelites under Joshua (Joshua 6), but the city’s pagan traditions had not been eradicated. The Canaanite religious system included idolatry, fertility rites, and occult practices that were condemned in the Hebrew Scriptures (Leviticus 18:24–28; Deuteronomy 18:12; 20:16–18) Israel My Glory. These practices were part of the cultural and religious fabric of the region, and Jericho remained a place where such worship persisted. The presence of the “sons of the prophets” at Jericho in 2 Kings 2 shows that the city was still a center of prophetic activity, even though it was a former Canaanite city Bible Hub+1. This suggests that while Israelite prophets were active there, the local population likely continued to engage in pagan religious customs alongside or in contrast to the prophetic message. Elijah’s visit to Jericho occurred just before his ascension to heaven. The sons of the prophets there asked Elisha if he knew the Lord would take Elijah away that day Bible Hub+1. This awareness of Elijah’s departure indicates that the prophetic community was attuned to the spiritual realities of the time, even in a city with a long history of idolatry. Israel My Glory+2.

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4. The Jordan River

• The crossing is symbolic, recalling the Israelites’ passage into Canaan (Joshua 3).
• Elijah rolled up his mantle and struck the waters, parting them so they could cross on dry ground Bible Mapper+1.
• Elisha asked for a “double portion” of Elijah’s spirit, and Elijah said if he saw him taken up, it would be his; otherwise, it would not Bible History.The Jordan River – a boundary and the place of transition.  
  

  The name “Jordan” originates from the Hebrew יַרְדֵּן (Yarden), meaning “to descend” or “flow down,” referring to the Jordan River. Origins and Meaning The name “Jordan” comes from the Hebrew word יַרְדֵּן (Yarden), derived from the verb יָרַד (yarad), which means “to descend” or “flow down,” describing the river’s course from the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea Behind the Name+1. The river itself has deep biblical significance, being the site where John the Baptist baptized Jesus Christ, which contributed to the name’s adoption as a personal name in Europe Wikipedia+1. Cultural Significance Beyond its biblical and historical roots, “Jordan” has been used as both a given name and a surname. Initially more common for males, it later became popular for females as well, especially in the United States Wikipedia. The name carries connotations of spiritual significance, flowing water, and descent, reflecting its origin from the river that played a central role in biblical narratives Abarim Publications+1. In summary, “Jordan” is a name deeply rooted in Hebrew language and biblical history, symbolizing the river’s descent and spiritual importance, and has evolved into a widely recognized personal and family name across many cultures and languages. Location of the City of Jordan in the Time of Elijah In the days of Elijah, the “city of Jordan” was not a single urban center but a geographical and political region — the land of Gilead east of the Jordan River — which formed part of the territory of the tribes of Manasseh and Gad in the northern Kingdom of Israel Wikipedia. This area is now part of northern Jordan. Biblical and Historical Context The Hebrew Bible (1 Kings 17:1) identifies Elijah as “Elijah the Tishbite, from Tishbe in Gilead” Holy Jordan. Gilead was a historical region east of the Jordan River, stretching from the river’s banks into the mountains Wikipedia. Tishbe, the town associated with Elijah’s birthplace, is traditionally linked to Tell Mar Elias in northern Jordan, near the town of Ajloun ancientjordan.com+1. Archaeological and religious tradition identifies Tell Mar Elias with the biblical Tishbe, making it one of the key sites connected to Elijah’s origins Aleteia. The Jordan River itself flows through this region, and the “city of Jordan” in the biblical sense refers to the Jordan Valley and its surrounding highlands.  ancientjordan.com+2.

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5. The Ascent

• As they walked, a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared, separating them.
• Elijah was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind, and Elisha wept, calling, “My father! My father! The chariots and horsemen of Israel!” ibiblemaps.com+1.

Map Summary
On a modern map of Israel, the route would be:
Gilgilia (Ephraim) → Bethel → Jericho → Jordan River crossing → Ascent to heaven.
The Jordan crossing is the key symbolic point, with the river parting to allow the prophets to cross on dry ground.

For a visual, the Bible Mapper Atlas provides a clickable map showing these locations and the sequence of events Bible Mapper+1. You can explore it to see the exact placement of Gilgilia, Bethel, Jericho, and the Jordan River.

Mt. Carmel

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Elijah Is Taken to Heaven

Posted byAdministrator April 9, 2023

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Elisha, now in possession of the Mantel of Elijah, and a double portion of the power of the spirit… began his journey as a prophet of GOD.  He went first to Mt. Carmel and then Samaria: 
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Mt. Carmel

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Samaria
The etymology of “Samaria” traces back to the Hebrew word “Shomron” (שֹׁמְרוֹן), which means “watch mountain” or “watch tower” Wikipedia+1. The name was later Hellenized to “Samareia” in Greek Etymonline. Historically, Samaria was the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel and is associated with King Omri, who purchased the hill on which the city was built Etymonline+1. The name reflects both geographical and historical significance in ancient Israel Abarim Publications.

Samaria became both a political center and a symbol of Israel’s apostasy when Ahab introduced Baal worship. After the Assyrian conquest in 722 BC, deportations and resettlements (2 Kings 17:24–33) produced an ethnically mixed population that retained a form of Yahweh worship while incorporating foreign elements.

Samaritan Identity in the First Century

By New-Testament times the Samaritans held to the Pentateuch, revered Mount Gerizim as the true place of worship, and rejected the Jerusalem temple and later prophetic writings. Centuries of mutual suspicion, sharpened by religious and political rivalries, lay behind the statement in John 4:9, “For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.” Yet Samaritans maintained a distinct expectation of the coming Messiah (“the Taheb”), which created an unexpected point of contact with the gospel.

Samaria in the Days of Elijah and Elisha Samaria was the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel during the reigns of kings such as Ahab, Jehoshaphat, and Joram, and it was the central city where Elijah and Elisha ministered in the 9th century BC Bible Hub. At this time, Israel faced severe challenges: widespread idolatry, political instability, and constant warfare with its neighbor, the kingdom of Aram (Syria) Bible Hub+1. Elijah’s Ministry in Samaria Elijah, the earlier prophet, was active in the northern kingdom and often interacted with kings. His ministry included confronting idolatry, delivering God’s word to rulers, and performing miracles that demonstrated God’s power. While much of his work is recorded in the southern kingdom of Judah, his influence extended to Samaria, and he was succeeded there by Elisha Bible Hub. Elisha’s Ministry and the Siege of Samaria Elisha, Elijah’s successor, was called to prophetic service while plowing in the land of Israel (1 Kings 19:19–21). He ministered to kings, performed miracles, and delivered God’s messages to the people Bible Hub. His ministry in Samaria was especially critical during a prolonged famine and siege by the Aramean king Ben-hadad Words of Hope+1. During the siege, conditions in Samaria became dire—food supplies were exhausted, people resorted to eating unclean animals, and even the head of a donkey was selling for silver Words of Hope. King Joram, blaming the famine on Elisha, ordered his execution. Elisha, however, had been told by God that the siege would end that very night, and that food would soon be plentiful Words of Hope. His calm response and God’s miraculous deliverance turned public opinion in his favor. Elisha also intervened in other ways. In 2 Kings 6:8–23, he revealed the Aramean army’s movements to the king of Israel, leading to their defeat. In 2 Kings 7:1–9, he used a group of Israelite soldiers to deliver food to the besieged city, fulfilling his prophecy of abundance Bible Hub+1. Theological and Historical Significance Elisha’s work in Samaria underscores God’s sovereignty over nations and His faithfulness to His covenant people despite widespread apostasy Bible Hub. His miracles—such as healing the Shunammite woman’s son, multiplying oil for a widow, and healing Naaman the Syrian—demonstrated God’s power to both Israelites and foreigners Bible Hub. The siege and famine episodes also serve as a reminder of God’s provision and the dangers of mocking His promises storage.googleapis.com. In summary, Samaria in the days of Elijah and Elisha was a city of both spiritual and political turmoil, where the prophets’ ministries were pivotal in delivering God’s people from crisis and restoring hope in the face of overwhelming odds.

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The name Elijah: Summary

The name Elijah in the Bible

Etymology of the name Elijah

The name Elisha: Summary

The name Elisha in the Bible

Etymology of the name Elisha

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Elisha meaning

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