Deuteronomy 28:23Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

What is the significance of this? The absolute lack of moisture and the deficiency of the atmospheric waters that impart life and abundance to the soil.

"The heavens that surround you will be like bronze." This reflects the conditions during the time of Elijah. "And the ground... will be like iron." This was also true in the time of his apprentice, as there was a severe famine lasting seven years during the ministry of Elisha.

The term "copper sky" refers to a sky that is unyielding and denies the earth its necessary sustenance. Similarly, "iron earth" signifies ground that is barren and, like a ruthless adversary, drives away the forsaken seeds that it would normally nurture with loving care. For it is not when does iron yield produce, nor does copper provide rainfall.

The barrenness and lack of productivity of the ground are signified by the phrases the earth is as hard as iron and the heavens are like brass.

Elijah left Ahab, and in accordance with the prophet's declaration, the skies were shut, resulting in a drought where not a single drop of rain or dew touched the ground. During this period, the prophecy of the revered prophet Moses to Israel was realized.