Elisha, a prominent prophet in the Old Testament, is introduced in the biblical narrative as the son of Shaphat. The Scriptures provide limited information about his family background, but what is mentioned offers insight into his early life and the environment from which he emerged as a prophet.

Shaphat

Shaphat, Elisha's father, is mentioned in 1 Kings 19:16, where God instructs the prophet Elijah to anoint Elisha as his successor: "You are to anoint Jehu son of Nimshi as king over Israel, and Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel-meholah as prophet in your place" . This reference indicates that Shaphat was a resident of Abel-meholah, a town located in the Jordan Valley, which was part of the tribal territory of Issachar or Manasseh.

The mention of Shaphat's name suggests that he was a man of some standing, as it was customary in ancient Israel to identify individuals by their father's name, especially when the father was a person of note. While the Bible does not provide further details about Shaphat's life or character, his role as Elisha's father implies that he was part of a family that valued faithfulness to God, given Elisha's later dedication to prophetic ministry.

Elisha's Family and Social Status

The narrative in 1 Kings 19:19-21 provides additional context about Elisha's family and their social status. When Elijah finds Elisha, he is plowing with twelve yoke of oxen, and he himself is driving the twelfth pair. This detail suggests that Elisha's family was relatively prosperous, as owning multiple yoke of oxen was indicative of wealth and a substantial agricultural operation. The ability to plow with twelve yoke of oxen implies that Shaphat's household was well-established and capable of sustaining a large-scale farming enterprise.

Elisha's immediate response to Elijah's call, leaving his oxen and running after the prophet, reflects a readiness to forsake his familial and economic ties for the sake of God's calling. This decision underscores the spiritual environment in which Elisha was raised, one that likely emphasized obedience to God's will and the importance of spiritual service.

Cultural and Religious Context

The cultural and religious context of Elisha's upbringing would have been shaped by the broader spiritual climate of Israel during the reigns of Ahab and his successors. This period was marked by widespread idolatry and apostasy, yet there remained a faithful remnant committed to the worship of Yahweh. Elisha's family, by virtue of his prophetic calling, would have been part of this remnant, adhering to the covenantal traditions and teachings of the God of Israel.

In summary, while the Bible provides limited information about Elisha's parents, the references to Shaphat and the details of Elisha's call to prophetic ministry suggest a family background characterized by faithfulness, prosperity, and readiness to serve God. These elements contributed to Elisha's preparation for his significant role as a prophet in Israel.