1 Kings 17:15

KJV

And she went and did according to the saying of Elijah: and she, and he, and her house, did eat [many] days.

KJV (with Strong's)

And she went {H3212} and did {H6213} according to the saying {H1697} of Elijah {H452}: and she, and he, and her house {H1004}, did eat {H398} many days {H3117}.

Complete Jewish Bible

She went and acted according to what Eliyahu had said; and she, he and her household had food to eat for a long time.

Berean Standard Bible

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.

American Standard Version

And she went and did according to the saying of Elijah: and she, and he, and her house, did eat many days.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 17:15 records the pivotal moment of the Zarephath widow's immediate and profound obedience to the prophet Elijah's divine instruction, resulting in the miraculous and sustained provision of flour and oil for her, Elijah, and her entire household for "many days." This verse powerfully demonstrates God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises, His sovereign ability to provide abundantly even in extreme scarcity, and the transformative power of obedient faith, setting the stage for further divine intervention in the face of widespread famine and spiritual apostasy in Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the dramatic narrative of Elijah's ministry, which commences abruptly in [1 Kings 17](/1_kings/17 "1 Kings 17 - Elijah's Ministry Begins"). Following his audacious proclamation of a severe drought upon Israel as divine judgment for King Ahab's rampant idolatry ([1 Kings 17:1](/1_kings/17-1 "1 Kings 17:1 - Elijah Proclaims Drought")), Elijah is miraculously sustained by ravens at the Cherith Ravine ([1 Kings 17:2-7](/1_kings/17-2-7 "1 Kings 17:2-7 - Elijah at Cherith")). When the brook dries up, God directs him to Zarephath, a town located in Sidonian territory, where he encounters a destitute widow preparing what she believes will be her last meal for herself and her son before they succumb to starvation ([1 Kings 17:8-12](/1_kings/17-8-12 "1 Kings 17:8-12 - Elijah Encounters the Widow of Zarephath")). Elijah's seemingly audacious request for water and bread, coupled with his divine promise of unfailing provision ([1 Kings 17:13-14](/1_kings/17-13-14 "1 Kings 17:13-14 - Elijah's Promise to the Widow")), sets the stage for the widow's pivotal act of obedient faith in [1 Kings 17:15](/1_kings/17-15 "1 Kings 17:15 - The Widow's Obedience and God's Provision"), which immediately precedes the even more profound miracle of the raising of her son from the dead ([1 Kings 17:17-24](/1_kings/17-17-24 "1 Kings 17:17-24 - The Widow's Son Raised from the Dead")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of [1 Kings 17](/1_kings/17 "1 Kings 17 - Elijah's Ministry Begins") unfold during the tumultuous reign of King Ahab and Queen Jezebel, a period tragically marked by unprecedented state-sponsored Baal worship in Israel. Jezebel, a Sidonian princess, actively championed the worship of Baal, a Canaanite storm god believed to control rain and fertility, thereby directly challenging Yahweh's sovereignty. The severe drought, therefore, serves as a direct, tangible divine judgment, powerfully demonstrating Yahweh's absolute control over nature and His undeniable superiority over Baal. Widows in ancient Near Eastern society were among the most vulnerable members, often lacking legal protection, property rights, and social safety nets, making their reliance on charity or miraculous divine provision absolute. The profound significance of God sending Elijah to a Gentile widow in Sidonian territory—the very homeland of Jezebel and the epicenter of Baal worship—cannot be overstated. This highlights God's universal sovereignty and His compassionate concern extending far beyond the conventional borders of Israel, demonstrating His willingness to work through unexpected vessels.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Kings 17:15](/1_kings/17-15 "1 Kings 17:15 - The Widow's Obedience and God's Provision") powerfully encapsulates several key themes central to the overarching narrative of [1 Kings](/1_kings "1 Kings - The Reign of Kings"). **Obedience in Faith** is paramount, as the widow's decision to "do according to the saying of Elijah" despite her dire circumstances demonstrates a radical trust in God's word over her perceived reality, thereby unlocking divine blessing. This highlights the foundational biblical principle that true faith is not merely intellectual assent but is demonstrated through responsive action. **Divine Provision** is another dominant theme, showcasing God's ability to sustain life miraculously even in the most extreme conditions of famine, directly contrasting with Baal's impotence and inability to provide rain. The continuous nature of the miracle underscores God's unfailing faithfulness to those who trust Him, fulfilling the specific promise given in [1 Kings 17:14](/1_kings/17-14 "1 Kings 17:14 - Elijah's Promise to the Widow"). Furthermore, the narrative subtly introduces the theme of **God's Universal Concern**, as His prophet is sent to a Gentile widow, foreshadowing the inclusion of non-Israelites in God's redemptive plan, a theme later explicitly emphasized by Jesus himself in [Luke 4:25-26](/luke/4-25-26 "Luke 4:25-26 - Jesus References Elijah and Elisha and the Widow of Zarephath").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **saying (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** From H1697, meaning "a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; ... saying, sentence, ... word." In this context, "saying" refers to the specific, divinely inspired instruction given by Elijah. The widow's obedience to this "dâbâr" signifies her recognition of its authoritative, prophetic nature, indicating that she perceived it as a direct word from God, not merely a human request. Her action demonstrates that she took God's word seriously and acted upon it.
* **house (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** From H1004, meaning "a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.); ... house(-hold)." While the immediate narrative focuses on the widow, her son, and Elijah, the inclusion of "her house" indicates that the miraculous provision extended beyond these three individuals. This term encompasses the entire household unit, suggesting that other dependents, servants, or extended family living within her dwelling also benefited from the continuous supply. This detail underscores the expansive and abundant nature of God's provision, reflecting His comprehensive care for all connected to the obedient.
* **days (Hebrew, _yôwm'_):** From H3117, meaning "a day (as the warm hours), whether literal ... or figurative (a space of time defined by an associated term), ... day, ... days ... time." The phrase "many days" conveys the sustained, continuous, and long-term nature of the miracle. It was not a transient provision for a single meal or a few days' sustenance, but a consistent, ongoing flow of flour and oil that lasted throughout the severe and prolonged drought. This emphasizes God's unfailing faithfulness and His ability to provide consistently over an extended period, demonstrating His enduring commitment to those who trust Him, defying natural limitations.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And she went and did according to the saying of Elijah":** This clause describes the widow's immediate, decisive act of obedience. Despite her desperate circumstances and the seemingly irrational request to give her last meal to a stranger, she promptly and fully acts upon Elijah's word. This "going and doing" signifies a profound leap of faith, prioritizing the prophet's divine instruction over her logical assessment of survival. It represents the critical turning point where human obedience, even in the face of perceived impossibility, meets divine promise, activating the miracle.
* **"and she, and he, and her house, did eat":** This identifies the beneficiaries of the miraculous provision. "She" refers to the widow, "he" to Elijah, and "her house" to the wider household, including her son and any other residents. The verb "did eat" confirms the immediate and tangible fulfillment of Elijah's promise. This clause highlights the communal aspect of God's blessing, demonstrating that her singular act of faith brought sustained nourishment not only to herself but also to the prophet of God and her entire family unit, underscoring the far-reaching impact of obedience.
* **"[many] days":** This final phrase specifies the remarkable duration of the miracle. It emphasizes that the provision was not a temporary reprieve but a sustained, ongoing supply of food, lasting for an extended, undefined period throughout the severe drought that afflicted the land. This continuous nature of the miracle underscores God's persistent faithfulness and His power to defy natural limitations, ensuring consistent, unfailing sustenance for those under His divine care, until the Lord sent rain again.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative in [1 Kings 17:15](/1_kings/17-15 "1 Kings 17:15 - The Widow's Obedience and God's Provision") employs several powerful literary devices to amplify its theological message. **Contrast** is vividly evident in the stark difference between the widow's initial state of abject poverty and despair, preparing for certain death, and the immediate, abundant, and sustained provision of God. Her desperate situation is sharply contrasted with the continuous eating of "many days," highlighting the truly miraculous and supernatural nature of God's intervention. **Irony** is also profoundly at play, as the prophet of Yahweh, who pronounced judgment on Israel for its idolatry, is sustained not by his own people but by a Gentile widow from Sidon, the very region from which Baal worship was imported into Israel by Jezebel. This subverts conventional expectations and powerfully underscores God's sovereignty over all peoples and His willingness to work through unexpected, marginalized vessels. The phrase "many days" functions as **Hyperbole** or **Emphasis**, not necessarily implying a precise number, but rather stressing the extraordinary duration and continuous nature of the miracle, far beyond any human expectation or natural possibility. This amplifies the sense of divine power, faithfulness, and the boundless nature of God's provision.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The story of the Zarephath widow in [1 Kings 17:15](/1_kings/17-15 "1 Kings 17:15 - The Widow's Obedience and God's Provision") stands as a profound testament to the power of obedient faith and God's unwavering faithfulness, even in the direst circumstances. It vividly illustrates that God's provision is not constrained by human scarcity or natural limitations, but is divinely activated by a trusting response to His authoritative word. The widow's radical willingness to give her last, despite overwhelming odds and the immediate threat of starvation, demonstrates a profound surrender that unlocks divine abundance. This narrative serves as a timeless paradigm, showing that God often calls His people to step out in faith into seemingly impossible situations, only to reveal His limitless resources and His steadfast commitment to sustain those who prioritize His commands. It underscores the biblical principle that God delights in providing for His children, especially when they demonstrate radical trust and obedience to Him.

* [Hebrews 11:6](/hebrews/11-6 "Hebrews 11:6 - Faith is Essential for Pleasing God")
* [Matthew 6:33](/matthew/6-33 "Matthew 6:33 - Seek First the Kingdom of God")
* [Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "Philippians 4:19 - God Will Supply All Your Needs")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The Zarephath widow's story in [1 Kings 17:15](/1_kings/17-15 "1 Kings 17:15 - The Widow's Obedience and God's Provision") offers a powerful and enduring lesson for contemporary believers navigating a world often characterized by scarcity, uncertainty, and fear. God continues to call for radical acts of faith that defy human logic and conventional wisdom. The widow's immediate and complete obedience, even when faced with the imminent prospect of starvation, challenges us to critically examine our own willingness to trust God's word above our perceived circumstances and rational calculations. Her story encourages us to cultivate a spirit of generosity even in our own lack, knowing that God's economy operates on principles of giving and receiving that transcend worldly wisdom. When we prioritize God's commands and step out in faith, we position ourselves to experience His miraculous and sustained provision, often far exceeding our expectations. This narrative profoundly reminds us that God is not just a provider for a fleeting moment, but a faithful sustainer for "many days" through all of life's "droughts," both physical and spiritual.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the widow's immediate and radical obedience challenge my own response to God's commands, especially when they seem illogical or demand significant personal sacrifice?**
* **In what specific areas of my life am I currently being called to trust God for "many days" of sustained provision, rather than just a one-time need or a quick fix?**
* **How can I practically demonstrate radical faith and generosity when my resources feel scarce, believing that God can multiply my meager offerings to meet not only my needs but also the needs of others?**

### FAQ
**Why did God send Elijah to a Gentile widow outside Israel?**

Answer: God's sovereign decision to send Elijah to a Gentile widow in Zarephath, a city located in Sidonian territory (the very homeland of Queen Jezebel and the epicenter of Baal worship), is deeply significant. It powerfully demonstrates God's universal sovereignty, proving that His power, authority, and compassionate concern extend far beyond the geographical and ethnic boundaries of the nation of Israel. This act directly challenged the prevailing Israelite belief that Yahweh was exclusively their tribal God, showing unequivocally that He is the Lord of all nations and peoples. Furthermore, it served as a prophetic indictment against faithless Israel, highlighting that a Gentile woman demonstrated greater faith and obedience to God's word than many within God's own covenant people. Jesus himself later referenced this profound event in [Luke 4:25-26](/luke/4-25-26 "Luke 4:25-26 - Jesus References Elijah and Elisha and the Widow of Zarephath") to illustrate God's sovereign choice and the eventual inclusion of Gentiles in His redemptive plan.

**What is the significance of "many days" in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "many days" (Hebrew, _yamim rabbim_) emphasizes the continuous, sustained, and long-term nature of the miracle, rather than a singular, isolated event. It signifies that the provision of flour and oil was not a one-time supply for a few meals but lasted for an extended, undefined period, ensuring the survival of the widow, her son, and Elijah throughout the severe drought that afflicted the land. This detail profoundly underscores God's unfailing faithfulness and His boundless ability to provide consistently and abundantly, demonstrating His enduring commitment to those who trust in Him, even in the face of prolonged hardship and scarcity. The miracle continued without interruption until the drought finally broke and the Lord sent rain, as described in [1 Kings 18:1](/1_kings/18-1 "1 Kings 18:1 - The Word of the Lord Comes to Elijah").

**How does this story relate to the broader theme of judgment and restoration in 1 Kings?**

Answer: The severe drought itself is a direct divine judgment against King Ahab and Jezebel's rampant idolatry and Israel's widespread apostasy, demonstrating Yahweh's absolute supremacy over Baal, the false god of rain and fertility. However, within this overarching context of judgment, the story of the Zarephath widow highlights God's profound mercy and His sovereign power to sustain life. It powerfully shows that even amidst widespread spiritual rebellion and devastating famine, God faithfully provides for those who respond to His word in genuine faith, whether they are His prophet or a vulnerable Gentile widow. This narrative sets the stage for the dramatic confrontation on Mount Carmel ([1 Kings 18](/1_kings/18 "1 Kings 18 - Elijah on Mount Carmel")), where Yahweh's power to send rain (and thus end the drought) is decisively demonstrated, leading to a potential, albeit temporary, restoration of faith and recognition of Yahweh's sovereignty in Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The miraculous and sustained provision for the Zarephath widow in [1 Kings 17:15](/1_kings/17-15 "1 Kings 17:15 - The Widow's Obedience and God's Provision") finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as Elijah, through God's power, provided physical sustenance that never ran out, so Jesus is the ultimate provider of spiritual nourishment that truly satisfies the deepest longings of the human soul. He declared Himself to be the "[bread of life](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")," promising that whoever comes to Him "shall never hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst." The miraculous feedings of the five thousand ([Matthew 14:13-21](/matthew/14-13-21 "Matthew 14:13-21 - Feeding the Five Thousand")) and four thousand ([Matthew 15:32-39](/matthew/15-32-39 "Matthew 15:32-39 - Feeding the Four Thousand")) are direct echoes and amplifications of this Old Testament miracle, demonstrating Christ's sovereign power over creation and His compassionate desire to meet human needs, both physical and, more importantly, spiritual. Furthermore, the widow's radical act of giving her last, which resulted in abundant and continuous provision, powerfully foreshadows Christ's ultimate act of self-giving on the cross. His sacrifice, though seemingly a depletion of life, resulted in an inexhaustible supply of grace, forgiveness, and eternal life for all who believe ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World")). Thus, the sustained provision of flour and oil points to the everlasting spiritual sustenance and abundant life found only in Jesus, who continually sustains His people through every "drought" and challenge of life, ensuring that those who trust in Him will never lack true spiritual nourishment.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Mark 12:43

And he called [unto him] his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury:

Genesis 6:22

¶ Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he.

Matthew 15:28

Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great [is] thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.

Hebrews 11:17

By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten [son],

John 11:40

Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?

Hebrews 11:7

By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

Hebrews 11:8

By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.