Elijah was an esteemed prophet in the kingdom of Israel around the ninth century B.C., recognized for his unwavering commitment to the God of Israel and his role in key scriptural events. He confronted and challenged the idolatry promoted by Ahab and Jezebel, the notorious king and queen of Israel, leading to memorable episodes including the prophecy of drought, the miraculous feedings by ravens, and the widow of Zarephath’s endless supply of oil and meal. Notably, Elijah orchestrated an extraordinary demonstration of divine power on Mount Carmel, discrediting the prophets of Baal by calling down fire from heaven to consume his sacrificial offering. This pivotal moment underscored the futility of idol worship and the reality of Jehovah’s power.
Elijah’s life was marked by both moments of divine triumph and personal despair, showcasing his human complexity. Despite his successes, Elijah experienced feelings of despondency, yet he encountered the still, small voice of God on Mount Horeb, offering a profound lesson on the nature of divine communication. His departure from earthly life was as striking as his ministry; he was taken to heaven in a whirlwind accompanied by a chariot of fire, thus avoiding the experience of death (2 Kings 2:11).
Elijah’s prophetic role extended beyond his mortal ministry. The Book of Mormon references a prophecy from Malachi which foretells Elijah’s return “before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord” to restore the hearts of the fathers to the children and vice versa, thus preventing the earth from being smitten with a curse (3 Nephi 25:5-6). This return was fulfilled on April 3, 1836, when Elijah appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery in the Kirtland Temple, bestowing upon them the sealing keys of the priesthood, which ensured the validity of gospel ordinances for time and all eternity. Elijah’s mission and ministry, therefore, have had significant implications for the restoration of the gospel and its ordinances in the latter days.