Topical Encyclopedia Baalshalishah is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the ministry of the prophet Elisha. The name "Baalshalishah" is thought to mean "lord of three things" or "lord of the third part," though the exact significance of the name remains uncertain. It is identified as a region in the land of Israel, but its precise geographical location is not definitively known today. Some scholars suggest it may have been situated in the hill country of Ephraim, based on its association with other locations mentioned in the biblical narrative.Biblical Reference: The primary biblical reference to Baalshalishah is found in 2 Kings 4:42-44. In this passage, a man from Baalshalishah brings the prophet Elisha an offering of firstfruits, consisting of twenty loaves of barley bread and fresh ears of grain. This act of bringing firstfruits is significant, as it reflects the practice of offering the first yield of the harvest to God, a tradition rooted in the Mosaic Law. 2 Kings 4:42-44 states: "Now a man from Baal-shalishah came to the man of God with a sack of twenty loaves of barley bread from the firstfruits, along with some heads of new grain. 'Give it to the people to eat,' said Elisha. But his servant asked, 'How can I set this before a hundred men?' 'Give it to the people to eat,' said Elisha, 'for this is what the LORD says: "They will eat and have some left over."' So he set it before them, and they ate and had some left over, according to the word of the LORD." Theological Significance: The account of Baalshalishah in 2 Kings highlights several theological themes. First, it underscores the principle of divine provision. Despite the apparent insufficiency of the offering to feed a hundred men, Elisha, acting on the word of the LORD, assures that there will be enough for all, with leftovers. This miracle of multiplication prefigures the New Testament accounts of Jesus feeding the multitudes, as recorded in the Gospels. Second, the passage emphasizes the importance of faith and obedience. The man from Baalshalishah demonstrates faith by bringing his firstfruits to Elisha, trusting in God's provision. Elisha's servant, initially doubtful, learns to trust in the prophetic word, witnessing firsthand the fulfillment of God's promise. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near Eastern context, the offering of firstfruits was a significant religious act, symbolizing gratitude and dependence on God for sustenance. The mention of barley bread and fresh grain indicates the agricultural setting of the time, with barley being a staple crop in Israel. The narrative reflects the socio-religious practices of the Israelites, who were called to honor God with the first and best of their produce. Baalshalishah's mention in this context also serves to illustrate the widespread influence of Elisha's prophetic ministry, reaching even into the rural and less prominent areas of Israel. The account demonstrates how God's work through His prophets was not confined to major cities or centers of power but extended to all who were willing to listen and obey. In summary, Baalshalishah, though briefly mentioned, plays a role in the broader narrative of God's miraculous provision and the faithfulness of His servants. The account serves as a testament to the enduring principles of faith, obedience, and divine abundance that resonate throughout the biblical text. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BAAL-SHALISHAHba-al-shal'-i-sha, ba-al-shale-'sha ba`al shalishah; Baithsarisa: Whence a man came to Gilgal with first-fruits (2 Kings 4:42) was probably not far from the latter place. According to the Talmud (Sanh. 12a) the fruits of the earth nowhere ripened so quickly. It is called by Eusebius Baithsarith (Jerome "Bethsalisa"), and located 15 miles North of Diospolis (Lydda). Khirbet Sirisia almost exactly fits this description. Gilgal (Jiljulieh) lies in the plain about 4 1/2 miles to the Northwest Khirbet Kefr Thilth, 3 1/2 miles farther north, has also been suggested. The Arabic Thilth exactly corresponds to the Hebrew Shalishah. Thesaurus Baalshalishah/b/baalshalishah.htm - 7k Baal-shalishah (1 Occurrence) Baal-shalisha (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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