The name Elisha has its origins in the Hebrew language and culture, dating back to ancient Biblical times. It is derived from the Hebrew words "El" meaning "God" and "yasha" meaning "to save" or "to deliver." The combined meaning of Elisha is often interpreted as "God is salvation" or "God is my salvation."

One of the earliest and most prominent references to the name Elisha can be found in the Hebrew Bible, where it refers to a prominent prophet and successor to the prophet Elijah. The biblical account of Elisha's life and miracles is recorded in the First and Second Books of Kings.

The name Elisha gained further recognition and popularity in the Christian tradition, as it was adopted by several early Christian saints and figures. One notable example is Saint Elisha of Babylon, a 4th-century martyr and Bishop of Ctesiphon, the capital of the Sassanid Persian Empire.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Elisha. One of the earliest recorded examples is Elisha ben Abuya, a prominent Jewish scholar and tanna (rabbi) who lived in the 2nd century CE in ancient Judea.

Another significant figure was Elisha Gray (1835-1901), an American electrical engineer and inventor who is best known for his development of a telephone prototype, which he patented just a few hours after Alexander Graham Bell's famous invention.

In the realm of literature, Elisha Cook Jr. (1903-1995) was an American character actor who appeared in numerous films and television shows, often portraying villains or shady characters.

Elisha Cuthbert (born 1982) is a Canadian actress and model, best known for her roles in popular television series such as "24" and "House of Wax."

Elisha Graves Otis (1811-1861) was an American inventor and entrepreneur who revolutionized the design of modern elevators by introducing a safety brake system, which made skyscrapers possible.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals who have borne the name Elisha throughout history, showcasing its enduring presence across various cultures and time periods.