Prophet is defined by Mary Baker Eddy, in part, as “a spiritual seer” (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, p. 583). Hebrew prophet Elisha clearly displayed spiritual sight when facing an overwhelming enemy threat.

In the biblical account, the city of Dothan is surrounded—a circumstance fearfully reported by Elisha’s servant, Gehazi. Elisha responds, “Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them.” Then the prophet prays that Gehazi see beyond the physical danger to God’s uninterrupted protection, evidenced by “horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha” (II Kings 6:16, 17). 

How did Elisha discern God’s power in that perilous moment? Mrs. Eddy’s definition continues, “disappearance of material sense before the conscious facts of spiritual Truth.” To the consciousness awakened through prayer, divine reality is distinct and unmistakable. Outward appearances are exposed as having no actuality or substance.