The Old Testament contains accounts of several prophets, and while the biblical text provides details about their lives and teachings, it does not always provide explicit information about their deaths. However, historical and traditional accounts, as well as extra-biblical sources, offer some insights into the deaths of a few prominent Old Testament prophets:
- Isaiah: According to tradition, Isaiah was martyred during the reign of the wicked king Manasseh. He is said to have been sawn in half with a wooden saw.
- Jeremiah: The fate of Jeremiah is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible. Tradition holds that he faced persecution and hardship throughout his ministry, but there are no specific details about his death.
- Ezekiel: The Bible does not provide information about Ezekiel’s death. Historical and traditional accounts suggest that he died in exile in Babylon, but the circumstances of his death are unknown.
- Elijah: Elijah is one of the few prophets whose death is mentioned in the Bible. According to 2 Kings 2:11-12, Elijah was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind while Elisha, his successor, watched. This event is known as Elijah’s ascension or the chariot of fire.
- Elisha: The Bible does not explicitly mention Elisha’s death. However, tradition holds that he died of natural causes and was buried in Samaria.
It’s important to note that the details of the deaths of Old Testament prophets may be based on traditions, historical accounts, and cultural interpretations rather than specific biblical texts. The focus of the biblical accounts is primarily on the prophets’ teachings, messages, and interactions with God and the people, rather than their deaths.