Meaning
A place name meaning “garden-land,” “orchard,” or “fruitful field”; the name is used for more than one place in Scripture.
Biblical Usage
Carmel most prominently refers to Mount Carmel, a prominent mountain or ridge on the Mediterranean coast in northern Israel. It is the setting of Elijah’s confrontation with the prophets of Baal.
Scripture also refers to Carmel as a town or district in the territory of Judah. This Carmel was associated with Nabal and Abigail and was visited by David while he was in the wilderness of Paran.
Key References
- Joshua 15:55 — Carmel is listed among the cities of Judah.
- 1 Samuel 25:2 — Nabal’s possessions are in Carmel.
- 1 Samuel 25:40 — David’s servants come to Abigail at Carmel.
- 1 Kings 18:19 — Elijah calls Israel and the prophets of Baal to Mount Carmel.
- 1 Kings 18:20 — Ahab gathers the people at Mount Carmel.
- 1 Kings 18:42 — Elijah goes to the top of Carmel.
- 2 Kings 2:25 — Elisha goes to Mount Carmel.
- 2 Kings 4:25 — The Shunammite woman goes to Mount Carmel.
- 2 Kings 19:23 — Carmel is mentioned in a description of the land.
- Isaiah 35:2 — Carmel is used in a description of flourishing and fruitful land.
Related Terms
- Elijah
- Nabal
- Abigail
- Maon
- Mountain