Tishbe in the Bible
The hometown of Elijah the prophet, located in Gilead east of the Jordan.
Tishbe was a town in the region of Gilead, east of the Jordan River, known primarily as the hometown of Elijah, one of Israel's greatest prophets. Elijah is consistently identified as 'the Tishbite,' connecting his prophetic authority to this remote settlement in the Transjordan highlands.
Modern Location
The exact location is uncertain, possibly Listib in the Ajloun highlands of modern Jordan.
Key Biblical Events
- 1Birthplace and hometown of Elijah the prophet
- 2Starting point of Elijah's prophetic ministry
- 3Associated with the rugged Gilead region
Key KJV Scriptures
"And Elijah the Tishbite, who was of the inhabitants of Gilead, said unto Ahab, As the LORD God of Israel liveth, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word."
Spiritual Significance
Tishbe represents the principle that God raises up His most powerful servants from obscure places. Elijah burst onto the scene from this little-known town to challenge the entire establishment of Israel, proving that God's power is not bound by human prominence.
Why Tishbe Matters
Tishbe holds a unique place in Scripture because it stands at the crossroads of God's covenant promises to His chosen people. With 3 major biblical events connected to this site — and key figures like Elijah linked to its story — Tishbe is far more than a point on an ancient map. It is a place where God acted decisively in human history.
Rooted in the Old Testament narrative, Tishbe is referenced in 1 key scriptures that reveal God's faithfulness across generations. Tishbe represents the principle that God raises up His most powerful servants from obscure places. Elijah burst onto the scene from this little-known town to challenge the entire establishment of Israel, proving that God's power is not bound by human prominence.
For today's believer, studying Tishbe is more than a geography lesson — it is an invitation to see God's faithfulness written across real places and real people. Every mountain, city, and river in Scripture reminds us that God works within history, not apart from it. When you read about Tishbe, you are standing on the same spiritual ground where Elijah encountered the living God.
Related Bible Characters
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Tishbe in the Bible?
Tishbe was a town in Gilead, east of the Jordan River, known as the hometown of Elijah (1 Kings 17:1). Its exact location is uncertain.
Why is Elijah called 'the Tishbite'?
Elijah is called 'the Tishbite' because he came from the town of Tishbe in Gilead, a designation that appears throughout the books of Kings.
Explore Related Content
Related Bible Locations
Mount Carmel
The mountain where Elijah defeated the prophets of Baal in a dramatic showdown.
Gilead
Mountainous region east of the Jordan — famous for its healing balm and rugged warriors.
Brook Cherith
Hidden ravine where God fed Elijah by ravens during the drought.
Mount Carmel
Where Elijah confronted 450 prophets of Baal and fire fell from heaven.
Brook Cherith
Where God hid Elijah and sent ravens to feed him during the drought he had prophesied.
Where to go next
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