Topical Bible: Women: Widow of Zarephath, Who Fed Elijah During the Famine

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The Widow of Zarephath is a significant figure in the Old Testament, known for her encounter with the prophet Elijah during a time of severe famine. Her account is found in 1 Kings 17:8-24, where she is depicted as a woman of great faith and obedience, despite her dire circumstances.

Historical and Cultural Context

Zarephath was a Phoenician town located between Sidon and Tyre, in the region of modern-day Lebanon. This area was outside the borders of Israel, indicating that the widow was likely a Gentile. The cultural and religious context of Zarephath was predominantly pagan, with the worship of Baal being prevalent. The widow's interaction with Elijah, a prophet of the God of Israel, highlights the reach of God's providence beyond the boundaries of Israel.

Biblical Account

The narrative begins with the word of the LORD coming to Elijah, instructing him to go to Zarephath, where a widow would provide for him. "Then the word of the LORD came to him, saying, 'Arise, go to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and stay there. Behold, I have commanded a widow there to provide for you'" (1 Kings 17:8-9).

Upon arriving at the city gate, Elijah encounters the widow gathering sticks. He requests a drink of water and a piece of bread. The widow responds by explaining her dire situation: she has only a handful of flour and a little oil, which she plans to use to prepare a final meal for herself and her son before they die of starvation. Elijah reassures her, saying, "Do not be afraid. Go and do as you have said. But first make me a small cake of bread from what you have, and bring it out to me. Afterward, make some for yourself and your son" (1 Kings 17:13).

Elijah promises that the LORD will provide: "For this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'The jar of flour will not be exhausted and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the LORD sends rain on the face of the earth'" (1 Kings 17:14). The widow obeys Elijah's instructions, and miraculously, the flour and oil do not run out, sustaining her household throughout the famine.

Miracle of Resurrection

The narrative takes a dramatic turn when the widow's son falls ill and dies. In her grief, she questions Elijah, expressing her distress and confusion. Elijah takes the boy to his upper room, prays fervently to the LORD, and stretches himself over the child three times. The LORD hears Elijah's prayer, and the boy's life is restored. Elijah presents the living child to his mother, affirming the power and truth of God's word: "Then the woman said to Elijah, 'Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the LORD from your mouth is truth'" (1 Kings 17:24).

Theological Significance

The account of the Widow of Zarephath illustrates several key theological themes. It demonstrates God's sovereignty and provision, as He sustains the widow and her son through miraculous means. The narrative also highlights the inclusivity of God's grace, extending beyond Israel to a Gentile woman in a foreign land. The widow's faith and obedience, despite her initial fear and doubt, serve as a testament to the power of trust in God's promises.

Furthermore, the resurrection of her son prefigures the New Testament theme of resurrection and the ultimate victory over death through Jesus Christ. Elijah's role as a prophet who mediates God's power and presence foreshadows the ministry of Christ, who brings life and hope to those in despair.

Legacy

The Widow of Zarephath is remembered as a model of faith and hospitality. Her willingness to share her last meal with Elijah, despite her own needs, exemplifies selflessness and trust in God's provision. Her account is a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and the transformative impact of obedience to His word.

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1 Kings 17:8-24
And the word of the LORD came to him, saying,
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Letter xxii. To Eustochium.
... To-day you may see women cramming their wardrobes with dresses, changing their gowns
from day to day, and for all that ... 597] The widow of Zarephath, who with ...
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