God's Judgement on Mount Carmel by Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn, 1 Kings 18:16-40, Bible.Gallery
Artwork Description
In this dynamic drawing, Rembrandt captures the dramatic climax of the biblical showdown on Mount Carmel, as described in 1 Kings 18. The prophet Elijah challenges the 450 priests of Baal, supported by King Ahab, to a contest: each side will prepare a sacrifice, and the true god will reveal himself by igniting it.
The priests of Baal spend the entire morning pleading with their deity to no avail. Elijah mocks their efforts, suggesting their god might be asleep. Then, in the late afternoon, Elijah prays to the Lord: “LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel.” Instantly, fire consumes his offering.
Rembrandt illustrates this very moment—smoke rises from Elijah’s altar as the priests of Baal recoil in disbelief. Some Israelites drop to their knees in awe, and King Ahab watches from above at the upper right of the scene. The composition is charged with movement and reaction, highlighting the miracle and its immediate emotional impact.
Following this event, Elijah orders the execution of Baal’s prophets, sealing the triumph of Israel’s God in front of the assembled people.
This drawing reflects Rembrandt’s skill in conveying powerful biblical narratives with immediacy, emotion, and a masterful use of light and gesture.