The prophet Elijah is directly associated with Baalbek.
According to classical Quranic commentaries and Islamic tradition (such as the writings of Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari), Prophet Elijah was sent to the region of Baalbek to preach against the worship of the Canaanite storm god, Baal. The city's original ancient name stems from this deity, meaning "Lord of the Beqaa Valley".
In Chapter 37 of the Quran (Surah As-Saffat), Elijah's direct confrontation with his idol-worshipping people is mentioned: "And Elijah was indeed one of the messengers. Remember when he said to his people, 'Will you not fear God? Do you call upon Baal and leave the Best of Creators, Allah...?'" (Quran 37:123–126).
While the Biblical text places Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal primarily in the Kingdom of Israel (such as Mount Carmel), early Middle Eastern geographic traditions linked the worship of Baal and Elijah's mission directly to the city of Baalbek. Near the ancient city, local folklore and regional geography still mark sites and traditions referencing Elijah's presence during his hiding and preaching.