1 Kings 17:5

KJV

So he went and did according unto the word of the LORD: for he went and dwelt by the brook Cherith, that [is] before Jordan.

KJV (with Strong's)

So he went {H3212} and did {H6213} according unto the word {H1697} of the LORD {H3068}: for he went {H3212} and dwelt {H3427} by the brook {H5158} Cherith {H3747}, that is before {H6440} Jordan {H3383}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So he went and acted according to the word of ADONAI- he went and lived in Vadi K'rit near the Yarden.

Berean Standard Bible

So Elijah did what the LORD had told him, and he went and lived by the Brook of Cherith, east of the Jordan.

American Standard Version

So he went and did according unto the word of Jehovah; for he went and dwelt by the brook Cherith, that is before the Jordan.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 17:5 presents the prophet Elijah's immediate and unqualified obedience to the Lord's command to hide himself by the brook Cherith. This pivotal verse highlights Elijah's deep faith and sets the stage for God's miraculous and unconventional provision for His servant during a severe famine, underscoring the principle that divine blessing often follows faithful submission.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the direct consequence of the dramatic confrontation between Elijah and King Ahab recorded in [1 Kings 17:1](/1-kings/17-1 "1 Kings 17:1 - Elijah's Prophecy to Ahab"). Having boldly declared a severe drought as divine judgment, Elijah is immediately commanded by the Lord to withdraw and hide himself ([1 Kings 17:2-4](/1-kings/17-2-4 "1 Kings 17:2-4 - God's Command to Elijah")). Verse 5 demonstrates Elijah's swift and complete compliance, acting as a crucial bridge between God's directive and the subsequent narrative of miraculous provision by the brook Cherith ([1 Kings 17:6](/1-kings/17-6 "1 Kings 17:6 - Ravens Feed Elijah")) and later by the widow of Zarephath ([1 Kings 17:7-16](/1-kings/17-7-16 "1 Kings 17:7-16 - Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath")). His obedience here is foundational, establishing his character as a faithful servant ready to follow God's word without question, no matter how unusual or challenging the instruction.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of Elijah's ministry was marked by intense spiritual apostasy in Israel, spearheaded by King Ahab and his Phoenician wife, Jezebel, who aggressively promoted the worship of Baal and Asherah. Drought was a common form of divine judgment in the ancient Near East, often linked to a deity's displeasure or power. For the Canaanite god Baal, who was believed to control rain and fertility, a prolonged drought directly challenged his perceived authority, making Elijah's prophecy a direct assault on Baal worship. God's command for Elijah to hide by the brook Cherith was both a protective measure against Ahab's wrath and a strategic move to demonstrate Yahweh's absolute sovereignty over nature and life, even in the midst of famine. The brook Cherith, located "before Jordan" (likely east of the Jordan River), would have been a secluded, desolate location, emphasizing Elijah's isolation and complete dependence on God.

* **Key Themes:** [1 Kings 17:5](/1-kings/17-5 "1 Kings 17:5 - Elijah's Obedience") contributes significantly to several key themes within the book of Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates **unquestioning obedience** to God's word, even when the path is uncertain or uncomfortable. Elijah's immediate action, "So he went and did according unto the word of the LORD," serves as a model of faith that translates into action, a theme echoed in the New Testament's emphasis on faith without works being dead ([James 2:17](/james/2-17 "James 2:17 - Faith Without Works Is Dead")). Secondly, it highlights **divine sovereignty and meticulous provision**. God directs Elijah to a specific, secluded place, demonstrating His ability to care for His servants in extraordinary ways, even orchestrating ravens to deliver food ([1 Kings 17:6](/1-kings/17-6 "1 Kings 17:6 - Ravens Feed Elijah")). This underscores God's faithfulness to His people, a truth celebrated throughout the Psalms (e.g., [Psalm 23:1](/psalms/23-1 "Psalm 23:1 - The Lord is My Shepherd")). Finally, the verse introduces the theme of **preparation through isolation and dependence**. The brook Cherith becomes a place where Elijah is "cut off" from conventional means of sustenance, forcing him into absolute reliance on God, a period of spiritual refinement that prepares him for the greater challenges and demonstrations of power that lie ahead, such as the confrontation on Mount Carmel ([1 Kings 18](/1-kings/18 "1 Kings 18 - Elijah on Mount Carmel")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **"went and did" (Hebrew, _yâlak_ and _ʻâsâh'_):** This phrase, literally "and he went and he did," emphasizes the immediate, active, and complete nature of Elijah's obedience. The repetition of the verb "went" (H3212, _yâlak_) followed by "did" (H6213, _ʻâsâh_) underscores that his compliance was not merely intellectual assent but a physical, decisive action. There was no hesitation, no negotiation, only prompt execution of the divine command.
* **Cherith (Hebrew, _Kĕrîyth'_):** The name of the brook (H3747), while its exact location remains debated, is significant. It is derived from a root meaning "to cut," "to cut off," or "to separate." This etymology subtly alludes to the nature of Elijah's experience there: a place of isolation, a "cutting off" from society and conventional means of sustenance. It was a place where God "cut off" Elijah's reliance on anything but Himself, preparing him through a period of intense dependence and discipline.
* **"before Jordan" (Hebrew, _pânîym_ and _Yardên'_):** This phrase (H6440 for "before" or "face," and H3383 for "Jordan") literally means "upon the face of the Jordan" or "in front of the Jordan." It is a geographical indicator, typically understood to mean east of the Jordan River. This detail emphasizes the specific and remote nature of the location God chose for Elijah, highlighting the precision of divine guidance and the extent of Elijah's withdrawal from the public eye and the reach of Ahab.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"So he went and did according unto the word of the LORD:"** This opening clause immediately establishes Elijah's character and the central theme of obedience. The conjunction "So" links directly back to God's command in 1 Kings 17:2-4, indicating a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Elijah's actions were not arbitrary but were precisely "according unto the word of the LORD," signifying his submission to divine authority and his role as a faithful messenger. This highlights a fundamental principle of biblical faith: hearing God's word must lead to doing God's word.
* **"for he went and dwelt by the brook Cherith,"** This clause provides the specific action and location of Elijah's obedience. The repetition of "he went" reinforces the active nature of his compliance. The instruction was not just to go, but to "dwell" (H3427, _yâshab_), implying a sustained presence and commitment to the divinely appointed place. The brook Cherith is identified as the precise refuge, a place chosen by God for Elijah's protection and provision.
* **"that [is] before Jordan."** This final clause offers a geographical marker, placing the brook Cherith in relation to the Jordan River. While its exact location is unknown today, this detail emphasizes the remote and secluded nature of the spot. Being "before Jordan" (likely on its eastern side) would have placed Elijah away from the main population centers and the immediate reach of Ahab, further highlighting God's protective hand over His prophet.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to enhance its impact. **Repetition** is evident in the phrase "he went," appearing twice within the short verse, which serves to emphasize the active, deliberate, and immediate nature of Elijah's obedience. This repetition underscores that his compliance was not passive but involved a decisive movement and commitment. **Foreshadowing** is also present; Elijah's dwelling by the brook Cherith, a place of isolation and dependence, subtly foreshadows the miraculous provision of food and water that God will supply there, setting the stage for the dramatic demonstrations of divine power in the subsequent verses. The very name **Cherith** functions as a form of **symbolism**, alluding to a place of "cutting off"—a period of divine discipline, purification, and absolute reliance on God, preparing Elijah for his future ministry. Finally, the verse stands in **contrast** to the prevalent disobedience and idolatry of King Ahab and the nation of Israel, highlighting Elijah's singular faithfulness amidst widespread apostasy.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 17:5 serves as a profound theological statement on the nature of faith and divine sovereignty. Elijah's immediate and unquestioning obedience exemplifies a core biblical principle: true faith is demonstrated through action. His willingness to follow God's seemingly illogical command to hide in a desolate place, especially after a public declaration of drought, underscores that God's ways are often beyond human understanding, yet always perfect. This act of obedience positions Elijah to experience God's miraculous provision, illustrating that God often calls us to step out in faith before He reveals the full extent of His plan or provision. It reinforces the truth that God is faithful to sustain those who trust and obey Him, even in the most dire circumstances, demonstrating His absolute control over creation and human affairs.

* [John 14:15](/john/14-15 "John 14:15 - If you love me, you will keep my commandments.")
* [Psalm 37:3](/psalms/37-3 "Psalm 37:3 - Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness.")
* [Matthew 6:33](/matthew/6-33 "Matthew 6:33 - But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Elijah's immediate and unqualified obedience in 1 Kings 17:5 offers a powerful and enduring lesson for believers today. In a world that often values self-reliance and rational calculation, Elijah's response reminds us of the profound spiritual power found in simple, trusting submission to God's word. His journey to Cherith was not a logical career move or a comfortable retreat; it was a divinely appointed period of isolation and absolute dependence, a "cutting off" from all conventional means of support. This challenges us to consider our own "Cherith moments"—those times when God calls us to step away from the familiar, to trust Him in uncertainty, or to embrace a season of hiddenness or difficulty. It is often in these periods of radical dependence that our faith is deepened, our understanding of God's faithfulness is expanded, and we are prepared for what lies ahead. This verse encourages us to cultivate a heart that listens intently for God's voice and responds with swift, unwavering obedience, confident that His commands always lead to His provision and purpose.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Elijah's immediate obedience challenge my own tendencies to hesitate or question God's commands?**
* **Can I identify any "brook Cherith" moments in my life where God called me to a place of isolation or radical dependence? What did I learn there?**
* **What specific area of my life is God currently asking me to trust Him with, even if the path seems unclear or uncomfortable?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper, more immediate obedience to God's word in my daily life?**

### FAQ
**Why was Elijah commanded to go to the brook Cherith, a seemingly desolate place?**

Answer: God commanded Elijah to go to the brook Cherith for several crucial reasons, demonstrating His divine care and strategic planning. Firstly, it was a place of **protection** from the wrath of King Ahab and Queen Jezebel, who would undoubtedly have sought to silence the prophet after his bold prophecy of drought ([1 Kings 17:1](/1-kings/17-1 "1 Kings 17:1 - Elijah's Prophecy to Ahab")). Secondly, it was a place of **provision** during the severe famine. God intended to sustain Elijah miraculously there, first through ravens bringing him bread and meat, and then through the brook itself providing water ([1 Kings 17:6](/1-kings/17-6 "1 Kings 17:6 - Ravens Feed Elijah")). This showcased Yahweh's absolute sovereignty over creation, directly challenging the false god Baal, who was supposedly the god of rain and fertility. Finally, the isolation at Cherith served as a period of **spiritual training and deeper dependence** for Elijah. Being "cut off" from human society and conventional means of sustenance forced him into total reliance on God alone, preparing him for the monumental tasks and confrontations that lay ahead in his ministry.

**What is the significance of the "brook Cherith" beyond being a mere location?**

Answer: The brook Cherith holds significant symbolic and theological meaning beyond its geographical designation. Its name, derived from a Hebrew root meaning "to cut" or "to cut off," suggests a place of **isolation and separation**. For Elijah, it was a place where he was "cut off" from the world, from the political turmoil, and from the expectations of society. This isolation was not punitive but purposeful, serving as a crucible for his faith. It became a place of **divine discipline and preparation**, where God stripped away Elijah's reliance on anything but Himself. In this desolate setting, Elijah learned profound lessons about God's faithfulness, His ability to provide in unconventional ways, and the power of absolute dependence. Cherith, therefore, represents any period or place in a believer's life where God calls them away from the familiar to deepen their trust, refine their character, and prepare them for future service, often through challenging circumstances that compel total reliance on Him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Elijah's immediate and perfect obedience to the Father's word at the brook Cherith profoundly foreshadows the perfect obedience of Jesus Christ. Just as Elijah "went and did according unto the word of the LORD," so too did Jesus live a life of absolute submission to His Father's will, declaring, "I always do what pleases him" ([John 8:29](/john/8-29 "John 8:29 - Jesus Always Pleases the Father")). Christ's obedience was not merely an act but the very essence of His mission, culminating in His willingness to go to the cross, even to the point of death ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")). Furthermore, the miraculous provision for Elijah at Cherith—water from the brook and food from ravens—points to Christ as the ultimate source of all sustenance. Jesus declares Himself to be the "bread of life" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus the Bread of Life")) and offers "living water" that satisfies eternally ([John 4:10-14](/john/4-10-14 "John 4:10-14 - Jesus and the Samaritan Woman") and [John 7:37-38](/john/7-37-38 "John 7:37-38 - Rivers of Living Water")). Just as Cherith was a place of refuge and provision for Elijah, Christ is our ultimate refuge and the one in whom "all our needs are met according to his riches in glory" ([Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "Philippians 4:19 - God Will Supply All Your Needs")). He is the one who perfectly fulfilled the Father's commands, securing for us not just physical provision but eternal life and 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

Proverbs 3:5

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Matthew 16:24

¶ Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

1 Kings 19:9

¶ And he came thither unto a cave, and lodged there; and, behold, the word of the LORD [came] to him, and he said unto him, What doest thou here, Elijah?

John 15:14

Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.