The Drought (part 5)

Eliyahu’s move to Tzarfat symbolizes a continuation of the argument between God and Eliyahu that began at Nahal Kerit. The move brings Eliyahu in contact with a poor widow who, together with her son, is about to die of hunger. They are the ones appointed by God to sustain Eliyahu, so that he may be exposed to their misery, and their misery should affect him directly. Perhaps this encounter will teach Eliyahu about the magnitude of the anguish that he has brought upon his people, and will lead him to pray for mercy on their behalf.