### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼĔlîyshâʻ**, represented by `{{H477}}`, identifies **Elisha, the famous prophet**. It appears **58 times** across **52 unique verses**, primarily in the books of Kings. The name belongs to a central prophetic figure, the successor to Elijah, whose ministry was marked by powerful miracles and direct communication with both kings and commoners on behalf of the LORD.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Elisha `{{H477}}` is introduced as the one who would continue Elijah's work, famously asking for a double portion of his master's spirit [[2 Kings 2:9]]. His identity as a **prophet** `{{H5030}}` is his defining characteristic, sought by kings to **enquire** `{{H1875}}` of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` [[2 Kings 3:11]] and recognized by servants as one who knows the secret words spoken by enemy kings [[2 Kings 6:12]]. His ministry involved performing great works through God's power, such as instructing a woman whose son he had **restored to life** `{{H2421}}` [[2 Kings 8:1]] and commanding Naaman to **wash** `{{H7364}}` and be **clean** `{{H2891}}` [[2 Kings 5:10]]. Even after his death, his bones were a conduit for God's power to revive a dead man [[2 Kings 13:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are central to understanding the ministry of Elisha `{{H477}}`:
* `{{H5030}}` **nâbîyʼ** (a prophet or inspired man): This is Elisha's primary title and function. He is consistently referred to as Elisha the **prophet** [[2 Kings 9:1]], and he leads the sons of the **prophets** [[2 Kings 6:1]].
* `{{H2421}}` **châyâh** (to live, whether literally or figuratively; causatively, to revive): This word highlights Elisha's role as an agent of God's life-giving power. He **restored to life** a Shunammite woman's son [[2 Kings 8:1]] and his bones **revived** a man who touched them [[2 Kings 13:21]].
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh** (the LORD): Elisha's entire ministry is defined by his service to the **LORD**. He swears by His life [[2 Kings 2:2]], prays to Him [[2 Kings 6:17]], and delivers His word [[2 Kings 7:1]].
* `{{H6419}}` **pâlal** (to intercede, pray): Prayer is a foundational action for Elisha. He **prayed** to the LORD to open his servant's eyes to see the heavenly armies [[2 Kings 6:17]], demonstrating his reliance on God.
* `{{H7200}}` **râʼâh** (to see, literally or figuratively): This word is key to one of Elisha's most profound miracles. He himself **saw** the angelic protection and prayed for his servant to **see** it as well [[2 Kings 6:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of Elisha `{{H477}}` is demonstrated through his life and actions.
* **Prophetic Succession:** Elisha's ministry begins when the **spirit** `{{H7307}}` of Elijah rests upon him, confirming the continuation of God's prophetic work in Israel [[2 Kings 2:15]].
* **Power over Life and Death:** Elisha's miracles, such as restoring a boy to life [[2 Kings 8:1]] and the post-mortem revival of a man [[2 Kings 13:21]], serve as a powerful testament to the **LORD's** `{{H3068}}` authority over life and death.
* **Spiritual Insight:** He demonstrates a supernatural perception, seeing God's armies where others see only danger [[2 Kings 6:17]] and knowing words spoken in secret [[2 Kings 6:12]]. His prayer to **open** `{{H6491}}` his servant's **eyes** `{{H5869}}` highlights the theme of spiritual vision.
* **Instrument of God's Word:** Elisha acts as a direct conduit for God's commands and announcements, whether declaring a coming famine [[2 Kings 8:1]] or the imminent end of a siege [[2 Kings 7:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H477}}` represents Elisha, a pivotal prophet whose narrative is a testament to the power and presence of God. As the successor to Elijah, his life demonstrates the continuity of divine calling. Through his miraculous deeds, from raising the dead [[2 Kings 8:1]] to revealing the unseen [[2 Kings 6:17]], the story of Elisha illustrates God's sovereignty over nature, nations, and life itself, acting through his chosen servant.
TRV