Elijah is a profoundly revered figure in most Abrahamic traditions. In these traditions, he is considered a prophet who carries the voice of God. Known as Elijah in the Bible and Ilyas in the Qur'an, he is celebrated as a powerful defender of monotheism, and a voice of justice in times of idolatry. For Christians, Elijah is the spiritual forerunner of John the Baptist and even of Jesus of Nazareth himself. In Islamic teachings, he is revered as a prophet who upheld the true faith.

This shared reverence has drawn Christian, Muslim, and Jewish pilgrims to sites associated with Elijah's life for centuries, creating a timeless tradition of interfaith respect in Jordan. Among these sites, two are of particular importance: the site traditionally recognized as his birthplace, and the site that Scripture marks as that of his departure to heaven –in a chariot of fire, no less. 

Tel Mar Elias: Elijah’s cradle

(Beautiful Mosaics in Tel Mar Elias)

In the Ajlun region of northern Jordan, Tel Mar Elias is widely believed to be the birthplace of Elijah. Located at an elevation of approximately 880 meters, this archaeological site offers breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley and the hills of Galilee. Since the 1990s, excavations have revealed layers of occupation and religious practices dating back to the Byzantine period.

Among the discoveries are two Byzantine-era churches, one of which is the largest of its kind found in Jordan, along with monastic structures, mosaics and inscriptions that link the site directly to Elijah. These relics provide a glimpse into the enduring veneration of this prophet over the centuries.

Recognizing its importance, the Jordanian government has promoted Tel Mar Elias as a major pilgrimage destination. Modern facilities have been developed alongside the preservation of these ancient ruins, making the site accessible to pilgrims and tourists. Annual festivals celebrate Elijah's legacy and draw visitors from all three Abrahamic faiths, creating a living testament to the shared reverence for the prophet.

The Ascension Site: a heavenly crossroads

(Photo credit: Fadi Sahouri)

South of Tel Mar Elias, near the Jordan River, lies the site traditionally known as the site of Elijah's ascension to heaven. According to biblical tradition, this is where Elijah was taken up to heavens, alive, in a chariot of fire. The proximity of this site to the baptismal site of Jesus and Mount Nebo has created a unique cluster of holy sites cherished by believers of many traditions. Pilgrims have traveled to these sites since ancient times, drawn by the scriptural connection between heaven and earth that these places evoke.

Elijah Today: Cultural Heritage and Religious Tourism

Today, the sites associated with Elijah serve as important landmarks in Jordan's religious tourism landscape, reinforcing its reputation as a land of prophets and a cradle of civilizations and traditions.The Jordanian government has invested in the preservation of these sites, implementing conservation programs, sustainable tourism infrastructure, and interpretive centers that highlight their religious and historical significance. Cultural events at these sites celebrate Elijah's spiritual legacy and connect Jordan's rich history with a global audience.

Through preservation and promotion, Jordan presents a shared spiritual heritage that resonates with all Abrahamic traditions, reinforcing its identity as a land where ancient faiths converge and coexist in a mutual appreciation of a common tradition.