The Brook Cherith holds a significant place in biblical history, particularly in the narrative of the prophet Elijah. This brook is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the First Book of Kings, and serves as a backdrop for a pivotal moment in Elijah's ministry.

Biblical Account

The Brook Cherith is introduced in 1 Kings 17:2-7. Following Elijah's proclamation of a drought to King Ahab, the word of the LORD came to Elijah, instructing him to hide by the Brook Cherith, east of the Jordan River. The passage reads:

"Then a revelation from the LORD came to Elijah: 'Leave here, turn eastward, and hide yourself by the Brook Cherith, east of the Jordan. You are to drink from the brook, and I have commanded the ravens to feed you there.' So Elijah did what the LORD had told him, and he went and lived by the Brook Cherith, east of the Jordan. The ravens would bring him bread and meat in the morning and evening, and he would drink from the brook. Some time later, however, the brook dried up because there had been no rain in the land." (1 Kings 17:2-7)

Significance

The Brook Cherith is significant for several reasons:

1. Divine Provision: The brook represents God's miraculous provision for Elijah during a time of national crisis. Despite the drought, God ensured that Elijah had water to drink and food to eat, delivered by ravens. This underscores the theme of God's faithfulness and care for His prophets, even in dire circumstances.

2. Symbol of Obedience: Elijah's journey to the Brook Cherith is an act of obedience to God's command. His willingness to follow God's instructions, even when it meant isolation and dependence on unusual means of sustenance, highlights the prophet's faith and trust in God's plan.

3. Preparation for Future Ministry: The time Elijah spent at the Brook Cherith can be seen as a period of preparation and refinement. Isolated from the world, Elijah was able to focus on his relationship with God, preparing him for the challenges he would face later, including his confrontation with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel.

4. Judgment and Mercy: The drying up of the brook serves as a reminder of the severity of the drought, which was a judgment upon Israel for their idolatry. Yet, even in judgment, God's mercy is evident in His provision for Elijah, illustrating the balance of justice and grace in God's dealings with His people.

Geographical and Historical Context

The exact location of the Brook Cherith is not definitively known, but it is traditionally believed to be situated east of the Jordan River. The region is characterized by rugged terrain and sparse vegetation, making God's provision for Elijah all the more miraculous. The brook's drying up is consistent with the severe drought conditions described in the biblical narrative.

Theological Reflections

The account of the Brook Cherith invites reflection on themes of divine providence, obedience, and the interplay of judgment and mercy. It challenges believers to trust in God's provision, even in times of scarcity, and to remain obedient to His calling, regardless of the circumstances. Elijah's experience at the brook serves as a testament to the sustaining power of God and the importance of faithfulness in the life of a believer.1 Kings 17:3,5
Get you hence, and turn you eastward, and hide yourself by the brook Cherith, that is before Jordan.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Elijah the Tishbite
... eastward," the prophet was bidden, "and hide thyself by the brook Cherith, that
is ... that had never been known to fail began to decrease, and brooks began to dry ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/chapter 9 elijah the tishbite.htm

The Voice of Stern Rebuke
... For a time Elijah remained hidden in the mountains by the brook Cherith. ... of his
household, that they make thorough search for springs and brooks of water, in ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/chapter 10 the voice of.htm

Godly Fear and Its Goodly Consequence
... There, you see, by the brook Cherith he sits him down, and ravens that were more ...
When the brooks are dried up and the ravens are gone there is a widow woman ...
/.../spurgeon/sermons on proverbs/godly fear and its goodly.htm

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