Son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah. He was a wealthy man. When Elijah found him, he was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen—he was driving the 12th pair himself. This indicates significant family wealth.

Elisha was a man of the earth, accustomed to the slow rhythms of agriculture. He was grounded, stable, and part of a community, unlike the nomadic Elijah.

He was formed by Faithful Labor. He wasn't meditating in a cave; he was working the field. God called him in the middle of his daily job.

For roughly 6-8 years, Elisha "poured water on the hands of Elijah." He served as a menial servant to the older prophet. He was shaped by humility and observation.

1. The Cloak (Calling).
2. The Whirlwind (Succession).
3. The Double Portion (Request).
4. The Jordan (Power demonstrated).

The Pastor-Prophet. While Elijah lived apart, Elisha lived *with* the "sons of the prophets." He ate with them, solved their problems (the floating ax head), and healed their food.

He provided Life. He healed waters, multiplied oil, raised the dead, cured leprosy, and fed the multitudes. His ministry was a preview of the abundance of the Kingdom.

The poor widows, the armies of Israel (who called him "The Chariots of Israel and their Horsemen"), and the prophetic community.

His ministry of miracles points directly to Jesus. Feeding the 100 with a few loaves and healing the leper are specific types of Christ's work.

He held fast to The Vision. When surrounded by the Aramean army, his servant panicked. Elisha prayed, "Lord, open his eyes." He held onto the reality of the unseen realm ("Those who are with us are more than those who are with them").

Elisha's judgment could be severe. He cursed the youths who mocked him (the bears), and he struck Gehazi with leprosy. He held the line of holiness with terrifying strictness.