1. a distinguished OT prophet, the disciple, companion, and successor of Elijah

The Name Elissaios: Greek Origin and Meaning

In Greek, the name “Elissaios” is a transliteration of the Hebrew name “Elisha.” The Hebrew name “Elisha” (אֱלִישָׁע) means “God is salvation” or “God is my salvation.” This meaning shines through its Greek counterpart, Elissaios, ensuring that the essence of divine salvation remains intact despite the linguistic shift.

Elissaios in the Greek Old Testament

Elissaios, or Elisha, is a prominent figure in the Old Testament. He was a prophet and miracle worker who succeeded Elijah. In the Greek version of the Old Testament, known as the Septuagint, the name “Elisha” is rendered as “Elissaios.” The Septuagint was a translation of the Hebrew Scriptures into Greek, undertaken by Jewish scholars in Alexandria around the 3rd century BCE. This translation played a crucial role in making the Hebrew Scriptures accessible to Greek-speaking Jews and early Christians.

Elissaios: The Life and Works of a Prophet

Elissaios is introduced in the biblical book of 1 Kings 19:16-21, where God instructs Elijah to anoint Elisha as his successor. The dramatic passing of the prophetic mantle from Elijah to Elissaios (Elisha), marked by Elijah’s ascent to heaven in a whirlwind (2 Kings 2:11), signifies a powerful transition of spiritual authority and responsibility.

Elissaios’ Miracles and Ministry

Elissaios’ life and ministry are marked by numerous miracles, demonstrating God’s power and provision. Notable miracles include:

Healing the Waters of Jericho

One of Elissaios’ first miracles was purifying the waters of Jericho. The people of Jericho complained that their water source was causing death and barrenness. Elissaios threw salt into the spring and declared that God had healed the waters, making them safe and life-giving once more (2 Kings 2:19-22).

The Widow’s Oil

Another remarkable miracle performed by Elissaios was aiding a widow in debt. She had nothing but a small jar of oil. Elissaios instructed her to borrow empty jars from her neighbors and pour oil into them. Miraculously, the oil multiplied until all the jars were filled, enabling her to pay off her debts and live off the surplus (2 Kings 4:1-7).

Raising the Shunammite’s Son

One of the most dramatic miracles by Elissaios was raising the Shunammite woman’s son from the dead. The child had died suddenly, and Elissaios came to the house, prayed to God, and stretched himself out over the child’s body. The child sneezed seven times and opened his eyes, alive once again (2 Kings 4:18-37).

Elissaios: A Symbol of God’s Continuity and Faithfulness

The story of Elissaios serves as a powerful reminder of God’s continuous presence and faithfulness. Through Elissaios, God provided guidance, relief, and miracles, reaffirming His commitment to His people. The name “Elissaios,” meaning “God is salvation,” aptly reflects the prophet’s role as an instrument of God’s saving grace.

Elissaios in Early Christian Thought

Early Christians, familiar with the Septuagint, would have recognized the name Elissaios and connected it to the stories and miracles associated with Elisha. The prophet’s unyielding faith and astonishing miracles foreshadowed the wonders and teachings of Jesus Christ. In this sense, Elissaios stands as a bridge figure, connecting the prophetic tradition of the Old Testament with the fulfillment of divine salvation in the New Testament.

The Legacy of Elissaios

Elissaios’ legacy in the Bible is profound. His life demonstrates the power of faith, the importance of obedience, and the limitless potential of God’s intervention in human affairs. Understanding the name “Elissaios” and its Greek and Hebrew origins provides a richer context for appreciating his story. The meaning, “God is salvation,” serves as a constant reminder of the divine mercy and deliverance available to all who trust in God.

Conclusion

So, what does Elissaios mean in Greek in context of the Bible? It means much more than just a name. It signifies a divine promise of salvation, embodied in the life and works of a prophet who performed great miracles and provided hope to many. Elissaios’ story serves as a testament to God’s enduring faithfulness and miraculous power. By exploring this name, we gain a deeper understanding of both the cultural and theological significance of one of the Bible’s most remarkable figures.