Metaphysical meaning of Elijah (mbd)
Elijah (in A.V., Matt. 11:14 and 17:3, Elias), e-h'-jah (Heb.)--Jehovah is God; my God is Jah; God of Jehovah; Jehovah God.
A great prophet of Israel (I Kings 17; 18; 19; II Kings 1:3--2:14; Mal. 4:5).
Meta. The spiritual I AM of man's consciousness. Elijah on Mount Carmel (I Kings 18:19) represents the I AM in realization of its unfettered power.
Elijah championed the cause of God with such enthusiasm that he became violent and destructive. This was the Jezebel side of his character. But he was willing to be instructed. He slowly learned the lesson that one must receive the kingdom of God as a little child. He started out with the roar of the whirlwind, and ended with the whisper of the "still small voice."
II Kings 2: 1-11 signifies changes of consciousness in the individual in his development and regeneration. Elijah (the spiritual I AM) represents the guardian and administrator of the divine law.
Elijah was taken by a whirlwind into heaven: the positive or dominant element of the I AM (Elijah) must be taken by the Lord into a state of peace and harmony (heaven); the fiery or destructive tendency of Elijah must be blotted out by the mildness and sweet-tempered obedience of Elisha.
Elijah, with Elisha, went from Gilgal when he was to be taken up into heaven (II Kings 2:1). One meaning of Gilgal is rolling away; it signifies the total denial of sense bondage. Denial of sense bondage must be followed by positive affirmations of Truth, accompanied by obedience and the quiet resolution to go forward in spiritual development (symbolized by Elisha). This results in the permanent establishment of higher states of consciousness--as man demonstrates more of his inherent powers.
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Following Entry: Elika