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The concept of Chariot of fire in Christianity

The keyphrase "Chariot of fire" in Christianity primarily refers to the miraculous vehicle that took the prophet Elijah to heaven, signifying his departure from earthly life. It embodies divine transportation, representing how individuals transition from life into the presence of God. In Gnosticism, it describes a metaphorical choice made by Calanas the gymnosophist. The Church of the East connects the term to divine manifestations experienced by figures like Abraham, while Early Christianity sees it as a metaphor for divine guidance in spiritual journeys.

Synonyms: Fiery chariot, Celestial chariot

In Malay: Kereta api; In Swedish: Eldvagn; In Spanish: Carro de fuego; In Finnish: Tulivaunut; In Dutch: Strijdwagen van vuur; In German: Streitwagen des Feuers; In French: Chariot de feu

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Chariot of fire'

Christianity Books

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: Expositions of Holy Scripture

(1) A biblical reference to the means by which Elijah was taken to heaven, contrasting with Christ's ascension.[1] (2) A symbol of divine transportation to heaven, representing the means by which individuals transition from life to the presence of God, regardless of how it occurs.[2] (3) A miraculous vehicle associated with Elijah's translation into heaven, symbolizing divine power and presence.[3] (4) The divine vehicle that takes Elijah up into heaven, symbolizing his ascension and the extraordinary nature of the event.[4]

From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)

(1) The divine vehicle that takes Elijah to heaven, symbolizing his dramatic and miraculous departure from earthly life.[5] (2) The vehicle that took Elijah to heaven, a pivotal event in the narrative.[6]

From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature

(1) Elijah is translated to Heaven in a chariot of fire, marking the end of his earthly ministry.[7]

Significance in Church of the East (or the East Syriac Church):
Church of the East Books

From: The Book of the Cave of Treasures

(1) A symbolic vehicle associated with divine presence, used for Adam's ascent to Paradise.[8] (2) A divine manifestation that appeared to Abraham, causing him to fear and fall to the ground.[9]

From: The Kebra Nagast

(1) A divine manifestation that appears to Abraham, signifying God's presence and power.[10] (2) A divine manifestation that appeared to Abraham as a sign of God's covenant and power.[11]

The Church of the East emerged in the 5th century and separated from the Roman Empire's state church by adopting Nestorianism. It emphasizes the distinct human and divine natures of Jesus Christ. It is also called the Assyrian Church, Nestorian Church or the East Syriac Church.

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) An image representing a miraculous event where the prophet Elias was taken up to heaven.[12] (2) A symbol of divine glory and judgment, reflecting the power and purity of judgment.[13] (3) A metaphor for divine guidance or inspiration, often associated with spiritual journeys.[14]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.

Gnostic concept of 'Chariot of fire'

Gnosticism Books

Significance in Gnosticism (Mystical or Esoteric Christianity):

From: The Gnostics and Their Remains

(1) A metaphorical expression used to describe how Calanas the gymnosophist chose to leave earth.[15]