1 Kings 17:3

Get thee hence, and turn thee eastward, and hide thyself by the brook Cherith, that [is] before Jordan.

Get {H3212} thee hence, and turn {H6437} thee eastward {H6924}, and hide {H5641} thyself by the brook {H5158} Cherith {H3747}, that is before {H6440} Jordan {H3383}.

"Leave here, turn to the east, and hide in Vadi K'rit near the Yarden.

“Leave here, turn eastward, and hide yourself by the Brook of Cherith, east of the Jordan.

Get thee hence, and turn thee eastward, and hide thyself by the brook Cherith, that is before the Jordan.

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Kings 17:3 (KJV)

1 Kings 17:3 records a direct command from God to the prophet Elijah, immediately following his bold proclamation of a severe drought upon Israel (1 Kings 17:1). This verse marks the beginning of a period of divine provision and seclusion for Elijah, demonstrating God's meticulous care for His servant amidst challenging times.

Context

The Northern Kingdom of Israel, under the wicked reign of King Ahab and Queen Jezebel, had plunged into deep idolatry, primarily worshipping Baal. Elijah, a prophet from Gilead, suddenly appears to confront Ahab, declaring that there would be no dew or rain for years, except by his word. This dramatic announcement sets the stage for a period of judgment on the land and a test of faith for both Israel and Elijah himself. God's instruction in verse 3 is a protective measure, guiding Elijah away from Ahab's wrath and into a place where he would be miraculously sustained.

Key Themes

  • Divine Direction and Obedience: The verse highlights God's specific instructions to Elijah: "Get thee hence, and turn thee eastward, and hide thyself." Elijah's immediate and unquestioning obedience to these precise commands is central to his journey of faith and God's subsequent provision (1 Kings 17:5).
  • God's Provision: Even as judgment falls on the land, God ensures the sustenance of His prophet. The brook Cherith is designated as the place of refuge and provision, where Elijah would be fed by ravens and drink from the brook itself (1 Kings 17:6). This underscores the theme of God's faithfulness to those who obey Him.
  • Seclusion and Trust: The command to "hide thyself" suggests a period of separation and dependence. Elijah is removed from public ministry and placed in a solitary environment, which likely served to deepen his trust in God alone, preparing him for future, even greater confrontations.

Linguistic Insights

The name "Cherith" (Hebrew: Keriyt, כְּרִית) is significant. It derives from a root meaning "to cut off," "to cut down," or "to separate." This etymology aptly describes Elijah's experience at the brook: he was "cut off" from the general population, "separated" for a specific divine purpose, and perhaps even experiencing a "cutting" away of self-reliance as he depended solely on God's daily provision. The location "before Jordan" places the brook likely to the east of the Jordan River, a relatively remote area.

Practical Application

This verse offers timeless lessons for believers today:

  1. Trust in God's Specific Guidance: Just as God gave Elijah clear, actionable instructions, He often guides us through His Word, prayer, and circumstances. Our part is to listen and obey, even when the path seems unconventional or difficult.
  2. God Provides in Unexpected Ways: The brook Cherith, with ravens as caterers, was an unlikely source of provision. This reminds us that God's ways are often beyond our understanding, and He can use any means to care for His own (Philippians 4:19).
  3. Periods of Seclusion Can Be Profound: Sometimes, God calls us to a period of quiet, withdrawal, or waiting. These times, though potentially challenging, can be crucial for spiritual growth, deepening our faith, and preparing us for future assignments. It's a time to learn to be still and know that He is God.
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Cross-References

  • Jeremiah 36:19 (2 votes)

    Then said the princes unto Baruch, Go, hide thee, thou and Jeremiah; and let no man know where ye be.

  • Psalms 31:20 (2 votes)

    Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.

  • Psalms 83:3 (2 votes)

    They have taken crafty counsel against thy people, and consulted against thy hidden ones.

  • Acts 17:14 (2 votes)

    And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there still.

  • Hebrews 11:38 (2 votes)

    (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and [in] mountains, and [in] dens and caves of the earth.

  • 1 Kings 22:25 (2 votes)

    And Micaiah said, Behold, thou shalt see in that day, when thou shalt go into an inner chamber to hide thyself.

  • Jeremiah 36:26 (2 votes)

    But the king commanded Jerahmeel the son of Hammelech, and Seraiah the son of Azriel, and Shelemiah the son of Abdeel, to take Baruch the scribe and Jeremiah the prophet: but the LORD hid them.