The Widow of Zarephath

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Not given; she is identified by status (“widow”) and location (Zarephath), highlighting her social vulnerability and foreign setting.
• Period/Era: Divided Kingdom
• Main References: 1 Kings 17:8–24
• Key Connections: Elijah the prophet; her son; Zarephath in Sidonian territory (Phoenicia)

Who was The Widow of Zarephath?

The Widow of Zarephath was an unnamed widow living in Zarephath, a Sidonian town outside Israel.
During a severe famine, she encountered Elijah after he was directed there.
She is portrayed as poor and responsible for a dependent child.
Her household became the setting for a prophetic sign during Elijah’s ministry.

Key Events & Achievements

• Event 1: She provided Elijah food and lodging despite having only a small supply (1 Kings 17:10–16).
• Event 2: Her flour and oil did not run out during the famine in accordance with Elijah’s word (1 Kings 17:14–16).
• Event 3: After her son died, Elijah prayed and the child’s life returned (1 Kings 17:17–24).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Her story depicts divine provision and prophetic authority extending beyond Israel during the famine in Elijah’s time.

Key Verse

"For thus says the LORD, the God of Israel, ‘The jar of flour shall not be spent, and the jug of oil shall not be empty, until the day that the LORD sends rain upon the earth.’" — 1 Kings 17:14, ESV