Old Testament
1 Kings 17:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Elijah picked up the boy, carried him downstairs from the upper room, and placed him in his mother's arms. "Look," Elijah said, "your son is alive!"
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And Elijah took the child, and brought him down out of the chamber into the house, and delivered him unto his mother: and Elijah said, See, thy son liveth.
What 1 Kings 17:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Elijah demonstrates the power of faith and the deep connection between a mother and her child. After a period of despair, the boy, who had died, is returned to life. Elijah carries him down from the upper room, showing his compassion and determination. He gently places the boy in his mother’s arms, a gesture filled with love and hope. Elijah’s words, 'Look, your son is alive!' are not just a statement of fact; they are a proclamation of joy and restoration. This scene highlights the miraculous possibilities that can arise from faith and prayer. It reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is hope for renewal and life. The reunion of mother and son symbolizes the profound impact of love and belief in the face of adversity. This story encourages us to trust in the possibility of miracles in our own lives, no matter how impossible they may seem. It’s a powerful reminder that life can emerge from death, and hope can flourish in despair. Faith can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
How to apply 1 Kings 17:23 to your life
When faced with difficult situations, remember that hope is always possible. Just as Elijah restored the boy to life, we can seek support and believe in positive outcomes. Trust in the power of love and faith to bring about change in your life. Miracles can happen when we least expect them, so stay open to possibilities. Embrace the connections that uplift you during tough times, just like the bond between the mother and her son.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary
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Illustrated scene from Elijah's story: The Widow's Son Lives (1 Kings 17:17–24)
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Elijah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 Kings
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Kings 17:23 mean?
1 Kings 17:23 describes the moment when Elijah brings a deceased boy back to life and returns him to his mother. This act demonstrates Elijah's faith and God's power to restore life, emphasizing themes of hope and miraculous possibilities.
What is the significance of Elijah carrying the boy in 1 Kings 17:23?
Elijah carrying the boy down from the upper room symbolizes compassion and determination. It highlights the deep bond between a mother and her child, as well as the transformative power of faith in dire circumstances.
What does 'thy son liveth' mean in 1 Kings 17:23?
The phrase 'thy son liveth' signifies the miraculous return of the boy to life, serving as a proclamation of hope and restoration for the grieving mother.
How does 1 Kings 17:23 relate to themes of hope and miracles?
1 Kings 17:23 illustrates that even in moments of despair, hope can prevail through faith. The revival of the boy serves as a reminder that miracles can happen when we believe and seek support.
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