What is this story doing in the book of Kings?

When the contemporary person reads the title “Kings,” one might think that it is about kings. As the Tanak, the Hebrew Bible designates the books of Joshua, Judges, Samuel and Kings as the former prophets (the Neviim). The story of the state, that is kings, is interpreted through the stories and visions of prophets.

Another aspect to consider is the relationship between the prophets in Hebrew narrative and those in the prophetic books. Elijah cast the largest shadow in the narrative of Kings. Likewise, he is ensconced in Judaism in the Passover Haggadah. The Elijah cycle begins its prophetic career in hiding (1 Kings 17:3).

Chapter 18 describes the contest between Elijah and the prophets of Baal. Ultimately, the God of Elijah defeated the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:1-46). However, after the victory came consequences. Ahab reported to Jezebel. She made a cursing vow that obligated her to have Elijah killed in twenty-four hours. The belligerent Elijah of the contest on Mount ...