The Legend of Elijah in Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Literature: A Study in Comparative Religion

By Gerda Neu-Sokol and Mishael M. Caspi

This work examines interpretations of Elijah in as an immortal being teaching the Law to the chosen ones. In all three religious traditions, Elijah is a mysterious person. He appears ready to undertake the mission to restore the hearts of the people, to bring them back to the right path. He is also the prophet about whom Jesus said; 'Elijah already came'. To understand humanity's recognition of Elijah and his role in the three traditions, we should examine three events; God's revelation to Moses via the 'burning bush', God's revelation to Elijah through the 'still small voice' and the relationship with Khidhr. Each of these traditions presents to us an immortal being who walks the earth teaching the chosen the true comprehension of the Law. Elijah plays different roles. For one he heralds the coming of the Messiah. To others he comes to identify the importance of the Torah. And in the Islamic tradition he is revered as a miraculous person.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0773447261
• ISBN13: 9780773447264
• Release Date: January 2009
• Publisher: Edwin Mellen Press
• Length: 295 Pages
• Weight: 1.40 lbs.