1 Kings 17:10
So he arose and went to Zarephath. And when he came to the gate of the city, behold, the widow woman was there gathering of sticks: and he called to her, and said, Fetch me, I pray thee, a little water in a vessel, that I may drink.
1 Kings 17:10 · King James Version
Meaning
When Elijah arrived at Zarephath, he encountered a widow gathering sticks at the city gate. In this verse, Elijah asks the widow for a drink of water, a small request that would soon lead to a miraculous display of God's provision. At this time, Zarephath was facing a severe drought and famine, and the widow and her son were on the brink of starvation. Despite the dire circumstances, Elijah's encounter with the widow would ultimately bring about a great miracle, as God had a plan to provide for them through the faith and obedience of both Elijah and the widow. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and provision in the midst of difficult circumstances, showing that He can use even the most unexpected situations to fulfill His promises.
Theological Overview
Interpreting the passage from 1 Kings 17:10-11, we see the prophet Elijah being led by God to the city of Zarephath. As he arrives, he encounters a widow gathering sticks near the city gate. The interaction between Elijah and the widow holds theological significance as it represents God's provision and care for His people. The act of asking for water in a vessel may seem insignificant, but it highlights Elijah's obedience to God's instructions and the widow's willingness to serve despite her own dire circumstances. In this exchange, we witness a beautiful picture of how God uses ordinary individuals to fulfill His divine purposes. Additionally, the act of fetching water can symbolize the act of providing for someone's physical needs, reflecting God's compassion and love for His children. Overall, this passage showcases the power of obedience, faith, and divine intervention in the lives of those dedicated to serving God.
1 Kings 17:10 in other translations
American Standard Version
So he arose and went to Zarephath; and when he came to the gate of the city, behold, a widow was there gathering sticks: and he called to her, and said, Fetch me, I pray thee, a little water in a vessel, that I may drink.
World English Bible
So he arose and went to Zarephath; and when he came to the gate of the city, behold, a widow was there gathering sticks: and he called to her, and said, “Please get me a little water in a vessel, that I may drink.”
Douay-Rheims
He arose, and went to Sarephta. And when he was come to the gate of the city, he saw the widow woman gathering sticks, and he called her, and said to her: Give me a little water in a vessel, that I may drink.
Geneva Bible (1599)
So he arose, and went to Zarephath: and when he came to the gate of the citie, beholde, the widowe was there gathering stickes: and he called her, and sayde, Bring me, I pray thee, a litle water in a vessel, that I may drinke.