Elyas (Elisha) (pbuh)

The Prophets of Allah
based on the narrations by Ibn Kathir

The Story of Elyas' (Elisha)

«And remember Our slaves, Ibrahim, Isaq and Ya'qub, (all) owners of strength (in worshipping Us) and (also) of religious understanding. Verily, We did choose them by granting them (a good thing, - i.e.) the remembrance of the home [in the Hereafter and they used to make the people remember it, and also they used to invite the people to obey Allah and to do good deeds for the Hereafter]. And they are in Our Sight, verily, of the chosen and the best! And remember Isma`il, Elyas, and Dhul-Kifl, all are among the best. » Surah 38: 45-48

Ibn Ishaaq said that Elisha (PBUH) was sent to the children of Israel after Elijah (PBUH). He lived among his people, calling them to Allah and abiding by the message and laws of Elijah until he passed away, Then dissension rose among them, and events took momentum. Sins increased everywhere, and the tyrants increased and killed the prophets.

According to Al-Hafiz Abu Al-Qasim Ibn 'Asaker, Elyas was Ibn 'Adi, Ibn Shultam, Ibn Aphraem, Ibn Yusuf, Ibn Isaaq, Ibn Abrahim. It was said that he was the cousin of Elijah. Other sources said also that he had been hiding with Elijah in a cave in Mount Qasium to escape from the King of Ba'alabak, and when Elijah died, he Elyas succeeded him as a prophet among his people.