Abel-meholah

The birthplace of the prophet Elisha (1 Kings 19:16).

Elijah found Elisha in Abel-meholah where he was plowing. He threw his coat over Elisha’s shoulders, symbolizing God’s call to Elisha to become a prophet (1 Kings 19:19–21). Earlier, the town is mentioned as one place where the Midianites fled from Gideon’s 300 warriors (Judges 7:22). It is also mentioned in a list of districts set up by King Solomon (1 Kings 4:12).

Abel-meholah is likely modern-day Khirbet Tell el-Hilu.

People and places

Abel-meholah: A town in Israel, home of Elisha