Ilyas (Elijah)Prophet of the Israelites

Also known as: Elijah

Nation / People

The Children of Israel in the northern kingdom (Ba'labakk region of Lebanon)

Period

Around the 9th century BCE; after Sulayman

Lifespan

Not specified

Burial Place

Opinions differ; some say he was raised to the heavens like Idris

Message

Return to the worship of Allah alone and abandon the idols that bring no benefit.

Lineage

1.
Yasin- Father (or grandfather)
2.
Finhash (Phineas)- Ancestor
3.
Harun (Aaron)- Ancestor

Key Miracles

Challenged the priests of Ba'l (Baal) and called upon Allah to send rain, which he did
Taken away from earth in a remarkable manner, the precise nature of which is debated

Key Stories

Sent to his people who had fallen into the worship of Ba'l (Baal), an idol
His challenge to the priests of Ba'l on Mount Carmel
His people's persistent rejection despite signs
His supplication to Allah and his rescue

Mentioned in the Quran

Surah al-Saffat (37:123-132)Surah al-An'am (6:85)

Special Characteristics

Praised in the Quran for standing firm against the widespread idol worship of Ba'l. Some scholars hold that Ilyas is the same as Idris, though the majority consider them separate Prophets. His salutation is remembered in the Quran: 'Peace be upon Ilyas!'