Prophet Elias, peace be upon him, was one of the prophets of the Children of Israel. God sent him in a time when corruption and a departure from monotheism were widespread. His people lived in the Levant region, and they worshiped an idol called “Baal,” which was a famous idol among them, so much so that they were called “the Companions of Baal.”
Elias, peace be upon him, came calling them to worship God alone, and reminding them of God’s blessings upon them, and of the prophets and guidance bestowed upon the children of Israel. He said to them:
"Aren't you fearful? Do you call on Baal and forsake the best of creators?"
But the people rejected him, insisted on worshiping idols, and only a few believers followed his call.
Elias continued to call them for many years, patient and seeking reward, warning them of the bad consequences of insisting on polytheism, and of repeating the fates of previous nations. When they were stubborn for a long time, God punished them with a severe drought, and they lost water and crops. Perhaps they would return, but they did not.
After that, God lifted the calamity when Elias called him, but he reminded his people again, but they responded only a few. Then God averted the harm of the people from him, and it was said that God Almighty raised Elias to Himself just as He raised Idris, so He singled him out for a noble status as a reward for his patience and steadfastness.
Elias was known among the prophets for his steadfastness in calling despite the lack of response, for his righteousness and piety, and for his extreme zeal for monotheism, as he did not accept to see his people worshiping idols without confronting it with truth and patience.