1 Now the sons of the prophets said to Elisha, “See, the place where we dwell under your charge is too small for us.
2 And let us go to the Jordan and each of us get there a log, and let us make a place for us to dwell there.” And he answered, “Go.”
3 And one said, “Be pleased to go with your servants.” And he answered, “I will go.”
4 So he went with them. And when they came to the Jordan, they cut down trees.
5 But as one was felling a log, his axe head fell into the water, and he cried out, “Alas, my master! It was borrowed.”
6 And the man of God said, “Where did it fall?” When he showed him the place, he cut off a stick and threw it in there and made the iron float.
7 Therefore he said, “Take it up.” So he reached out his hand and took it.
8 Once when the king of Syria was warring against Israel, he took counsel with his servants, saying, “At such and such a place shall be my camp.”
9 And the man of God sent word to the king of Israel, “Beware that you do not pass this place, for the Syrians are going down there.”
10 And the king of Israel sent to the place about which the man of God told him. Thus he used to warn him, so that he saved himself there more than once or twice.
11 And the mind of the king of Syria was greatly troubled because of this thing, and he called his servants and said to them, “Will you not show me who of us is for the king of Israel?”
12 And one of his servants said, “None, my lord, O king; but Elisha, the prophet who is in Israel, tells the king of Israel the words that you speak in your bedroom.”
13 And he said, “Go and see where he is, that I may send and seize him.” It was told him, “Behold, he is in Dothan.”
14 So he sent there horses and chariots and a great army, and they came by night and surrounded the city.
15 When the servant of the man of God rose early in the morning and went out, behold, an army with horses and chariots was all around the city. And the servant said, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?”
16 He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”
17 Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
18 And when the Syrians came down against him, Elisha prayed to the Lord and said, “Please strike this people with blindness.” So he struck them with blindness in accordance with the prayer of Elisha.
19 So Elisha said to them, “This is not the way, and this is not the city. Follow me, and I will bring you to the man whom you seek.” And he led them to Samaria.
20 As soon as they entered Samaria, Elisha said, “O Lord, open the eyes of these men, that they may see.” So the Lord opened their eyes and they saw, and behold, they were in the midst of Samaria.
21 As soon as the king of Israel saw them, he said to Elisha, “My father, shall I strike them down? Shall I strike them down?”
22 He answered, “You shall not strike them down. Would you strike down those whom you have taken captive with your sword and with your bow? Set bread and water before them, that they may eat and drink and go to their master.”
23 So he prepared for them a great feast, and when they had eaten and drunk, he sent them away, and they went to their master. And the Syrians did not come again on raids into the land of Israel.
24 Afterward Ben-hadad king of Syria mustered his entire army and went up and besieged Samaria.
25 And there was a great famine in Samaria, as they besieged it, until a donkey’s head was sold for eighty shekels of silver, and the fourth part of a kab of dove’s dung for five shekels of silver.
26 Now as the king of Israel was passing by on the wall, a woman cried out to him, saying, “Help, my lord, O king!”
27 And he said, “If the Lord will not help you, how shall I help you? From the threshing floor, or from the winepress?”
28 And the king asked her, “What is your trouble?” She answered, “This woman said to me, ‘Give your son, that we may eat him today, and we will eat my son tomorrow.’
29 So we boiled my son and ate him. And on the next day I said to her, ‘Give your son, that we may eat him.’ But she has hidden her son.”
30 When the king heard the words of the woman, he tore his clothes—now he was passing by on the wall—and the people looked, and behold, he had sackcloth beneath on his body.
31 Then he said, “God do so to me and more also, if the head of Elisha the son of Shaphat remains on his shoulders today.”
32 Now Elisha was sitting in his house, and the elders were sitting with him.
33 And while he was still speaking with them, the messenger came down to him and the king said, “This trouble is from the Lord! Why should I wait for the Lord any longer?”
The True Meaning of 2 Kings 6
The author of this chapter is the biblical historian known as the Deuteronomist, who compiled the books of 1 and 2 Kings. This individual was likely a scribe or priest living in the 6th century BCE, after the fall of the Kingdom of Judah to the Babylonians. The king of Aram seeks to capture the man of God, and we witness the ongoing conflict between him and the prophet Elisha in this chapter. We’ll see Elisha’s miraculous powers on display as he protects his followers and outwits his enemies. These events further demonstrate the power of God working through his prophets, as foretold in Deuteronomy 18:15: “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you shall heed such a prophet.”
The chapter also highlights the tension between the northern Kingdom of Israel and its neighbors, as Elisha’s actions impact the political landscape of the region. We’ll be reminded of God’s sovereignty over the affairs of nations, as echoed in Proverbs 21:1: “The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will.”
2 Kings 6:1-7
The section in 2 Kings 6:1-7 begins by mentioning the prophets’ living situation and describes how they felt that the place where they gathered was too small for them. This prompts them to seek Elisha’s permission to go to the Jordan River to gather beams to enlarge their dwelling place. Elisha consents, and they proceed to cut down the required materials. The iron axehead falls into the water as one of the prophets cuts down a beam. Distressed because the axehead was borrowed, the prophet cries out to Elisha, explaining the predicament.
This narrative holds several layers of meaning and offers timeless lessons. Firstly, the prophets recognizing the need to expand their living space symbolizes the need for growth and adaptation in our own lives. Just as they took the initiative to seek a solution, we are encouraged to identify areas in our lives that may need expansion or improvement. Additionally, Elisha’s presence and willingness to allow the prophets to gather materials signifies the importance of seeking counsel from wise and experienced individuals when facing challenges or decisions. Elisha’s role here highlights the importance of mentorship and guidance in navigating life’s obstacles.
The incident with the axehead falling into the water and the prophet’s distress over it being borrowed offers a profound lesson in the realm of faith and miracles. The axehead sinking symbolizes lost potential and the consequences of carelessness. However, the prophet’s instinct to cry out to Elisha in his distress displays his faith in seeking help from God through His prophet. Elisha’s miraculous act of making the iron axehead float to the surface of the water with a stick reveals God’s power to restore what is lost. This moment underscores the importance of faith and seeking divine intervention in times of loss or trouble, reminding us that God is able to provide solutions to our problems, no matter how impossible they may seem.
This story resonates with themes found in other parts of the Bible. The idea of seeking help in times of need is echoed in Psalm 121:1-2, where the psalmist declares, “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” Just as the prophet turned to Elisha for help, we are encouraged to turn to the Lord in our times of trouble, knowing that He is our ultimate source of help and provision. God’s ability to multiply and restore what is lacking is highlighted by the miraculous retrieval of the axehead, which parallels other instances of divine intervention in the Bible, such as the feeding of the five thousand (Matthew 14:13-21). The passage in 2 Kings 6:1-7 reveals profound lessons about seeking growth, seeking wise counsel, demonstrating faith in God’s ability to intervene in our challenges, and experiencing His miraculous provision. It serves as a reminder of the timeless truth that God is faithful to restore what is lost and to provide for His children when they call upon Him in faith.
2 Kings 6:8-12
The narrative in 2 Kings 6:8-12 reveals that the king of Aram was at war with Israel. At every turn, the king of Aram would strategize how to attack Israel, but the prophet Elisha, guided by God, would inform the king of Israel of the enemy’s plans. This ongoing revelation of the enemy’s tactics by Elisha confounded the king of Aram, who was at a loss as to how the information was being leaked. Elisha, the prophet in Israel, knew the king of Aram’s every move, which his own officials revealed after the king accused them of being traitors in his frustration.
This passage highlights the theme of God’s sovereignty and power over the affairs of nations and individuals. Despite the king of Aram’s military might and strategies, God utilized Elisha as a vessel to thwart the enemy’s plans. It underscores the importance of faith and obedience to God’s guidance, as seen through Elisha, who obediently relayed God’s messages to the king of Israel. This narrative illustrates the idea that no human scheme or military might can prevail against the divine will and protection of God.
Elisha’s role as a prophet in this story is significant as it demonstrates the prophetic tradition established in the Old Testament. Prophets served as intermediaries between God and His people, delivering messages, performing miracles, and calling the nation to repentance. Elisha, following in the footsteps of his master Elijah, exhibited unwavering faith in God and acted as a beacon of divine intervention amidst a time of political turmoil and conflict. The story of Elisha’s interactions with the king of Aram showcases the prophetic gift of foresight and the prophet’s role in shaping the course of history through spiritual discernment.
It is noteworthy that throughout the Bible, God often used prophets to convey His will and to guide His people. Prophets like Elisha not only foretold future events but also served as moral compasses, reminding the people of God’s laws and calling them to repentance. Elisha’s ability to see beyond the physical realm and discern the enemy’s plans demonstrates the spiritual insight granted to prophets by God. This narrative serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of God’s messengers in interpreting the signs of the times and pointing people towards divine truth and salvation. The episode in 2 Kings 6:8-12 resonates with the principle articulated in Proverbs 21:30 in the broader context of the Bible.” This verse underscores the overarching theme of God’s supremacy and omniscience, reminding believers that ultimate victory and authority rest in the hands of the Almighty. The portrayal of Elisha as a vessel of God’s knowledge and protection serves to inspire faith in divine providence and the assurance that God’s purposes will always prevail, despite the schemes of human adversaries.
2 Kings 6:13-17
The prophet Elisha’s servant woke up one morning to find the city surrounded by the enemy’s horses and chariots in 2 Kings 6:13-17. The servant was terrified and cried out to Elisha, “Oh no, my lord! What shall we do?” This part of the verse captures the fear and despair that the servant felt when faced with overwhelming odds. It’s a relatable experience for many of us when we encounter challenges that seem insurmountable.
Elisha’s response in the next verse is powerful and transformative. He calmly reassures his servant, saying, “Don’t be afraid. Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Elisha understood the spiritual reality that existed beyond the physical realm. This passage emphasizes the importance of having faith and trusting in God’s power even when circumstances appear dire. It reminds us that God’s resources are limitless, and His protection surrounds His faithful followers.
Elisha then prays for God to open the eyes of his servant so that he may see the invisible army of angels surrounding them. When God answers Elisha’s prayer, the servant’s eyes are opened, and he sees the hills filled with horses and chariots of fire. This moment is a profound example of God’s presence and protection in the midst of danger. It shows that we may not always see or understand the spiritual forces at work around us, but they are there, fighting on our behalf.
This story mirrors similar themes found throughout the Bible, where God demonstrates His power and protection for His people. “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him and delivers them,” says Psalm 34:7.” This verse echoes the concept of divine protection that Elisha and his servant experienced. It serves as a reminder that God’s angels are always near, ready to defend and safeguard those who trust in Him. The account in 2 Kings 6:13-17 teaches us valuable lessons about faith, spiritual warfare, and the unseen realm of God’s protection. It encourages us to trust in God’s power, even when faced with overwhelming challenges, knowing that His heavenly forces are at work on our behalf. Just as Elisha’s servant’s eyes were opened to see the reality of God’s protection, may our spiritual eyes be opened to perceive the work of God in our lives every day.
2 Kings 6:18-23
The verse in 2 Kings 6:18-23 unfolds a profound narrative that delves into the themes of sight, blindness, mercy, and forgiveness. The passage begins with Elisha praying to the Lord to open the eyes of his servant, Gehazi, so he can see the spiritual reality that surrounds them. This act of divine intervention reveals to Gehazi the breathtaking sight of the mountain filled with horses and chariots of fire, representing the angelic army sent by God to protect Elisha and his servant from the imminent attack of the Aramean army. It is a powerful reminder of the unseen spiritual battle that exists alongside our physical world and the supernatural protection available to those who trust in the Lord.
Elisha’s prayer for Gehazi’s eyes to be opened carries a profound message about the importance of spiritual sight and revelation. Just as Gehazi was initially blind to the presence of angelic forces, we too can be blind to the spiritual realities that surround us. This passage encourages believers to seek a deeper level of spiritual discernment and insight, knowing that there is more to the world than meets the eye. It reminds us of the need to approach life not just with physical sight but with spiritual eyes that can perceive God’s hand at work in all circumstances.
Furthermore, the narrative takes a surprising turn as Elisha, instead of allowing the enemies to be struck blind physically, prays for them to be struck with temporary blindness of the heart. Elisha demonstrates an incredible act of mercy and compassion by leading the blinded Aramean army into the heart of Samaria, the capital of Israel. He arranges a feast for them and sends them back unharmed to their king, Ben-Hadad. This act of kindness and forgiveness towards their enemies teaches a valuable lesson about responding to hostility with grace and love, even in the face of aggression and threat.
This story echoes the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, particularly in Matthew 5:44 where He instructs His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them. Elisha’s demonstration of mercy towards the Aramean army reflects the heart of God, who is slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. It serves as a powerful illustration of the transformative power of forgiveness and how it can disarm hostility and lead to reconciliation. The narrative of 2 Kings 6:18-23 challenges us to cultivate spiritual sight, trust in God’s protection, and embody the principles of mercy and forgiveness even in the face of adversity. It reminds us of the profound impact that our actions can have in transforming conflicts and showing God’s love to those around us. We meditate on this passage, and it inspires us to approach challenges with faith, extend grace to our enemies, and walk in the light of God’s truth and love.
2 Kings 6:24-29
A distressing account of a severe famine in the land of Samaria during a time when it was besieged by the Arameans is seen in 2 Kings 6:24-29. The situation is so dire that a donkey’s head is being sold for eighty shekels of silver, and a quarter of a kab of dove’s dung for five shekels of silver. This paints a bleak picture of the desperation and suffering faced by the people due to the siege.
The famine and suffering depicted in these verses serve as a grim reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience. Throughout the Bible, famines are often used as a symbol of divine judgment or a consequence of turning away from God. God warns in Deuteronomy 28:15 that disobedience will result in curses, including famine. This story in 2 Kings is a vivid illustration of the fulfillment of such warnings. It serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of staying faithful to God and the destructive outcomes of straying from His ways.
Furthermore, this passage highlights the vulnerability and frailty of humanity in the face of external threats and calamities. Even the affluent and powerful are reduced to desperate measures in times of crisis. It serves as a reminder that regardless of our status or wealth, we are all dependent on God for our sustenance and protection. This idea is echoed in Psalm 146:3, which warns against putting our trust in human leaders or earthly resources, as they are ultimately limited in their ability to save us.
The story of the famine in Samaria also showcases the moral dilemmas that arise in times of extreme scarcity. Two women in this scenario make a pact to eat one woman’s son one day and the other woman’s son the next day. The King of Israel is distressed upon hearing this and tears his clothes in mourning. This heartbreaking event serves as a poignant portrayal of the depths of suffering and desperation that can drive people to commit unspeakable acts. These verses in 2 Kings 6 ultimately serve as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin, the fragility of human existence, and the moral dilemmas that can arise in times of crisis. They prompt us to reflect on our own obedience to God, our dependence on Him in all circumstances, and the importance of compassion and morality, even in the face of extreme adversity.
2 Kings 6:30-33
The king tore his robes when he heard the words of the woman in 2 Kings 6:30-33. The people looked as he went along the wall and saw that he had sackcloth on his body under his robes. He said, ‘May God deal with me, be it ever so severely, if the head of Elisha son of Shaphat remains on his shoulders today!’” This passage takes place during a severe famine in Samaria, where the people were suffering greatly due to a long siege by the Arameans. The situation had become so dire that people were resorting to extreme measures, such as cannibalism, just to survive.
The king’s response to the woman’s desperate plea is significant. He is expressing deep distress and mourning over the situation by tearing his robes and wearing sackcloth. The tearing of clothes was a traditional sign of grief in the ancient Near East, done in times of great distress and sorrow. It shows the gravity of the situation and the king’s anguish over the extreme suffering that his people were enduring. His dramatic response reflects his sense of helplessness and desperation in the face of such a dire circumstance.
The king’s outburst against Elisha, a prominent prophet in Israel, also sheds light on the spiritual dynamics at play during this time. The king blames Elisha for the city’s troubles and threatens his life, mistakenly believing that Elisha’s presence is the cause of their suffering. This reaction reveals a lack of faith on the part of the king, as he fails to recognize that their current predicament is a result of the nation’s disobedience to God rather than any fault of Elisha.
Throughout the Bible, prophets like Elisha often faced hostility and persecution for delivering God’s messages. Elisha becomes a target of the king’s anger in this passage, highlighting the tension between those who speak God’s truth and the rulers who may resist or reject it. Despite the king’s threat against him, Elisha remains steadfast in his faith and commitment to God’s will, as seen in his actions and response in the following verses.
The story continues in the subsequent verses with Elisha revealing to the king that relief will come to the city the next day. This demonstrates God’s mercy and deliverance, even in the midst of judgment and suffering. It serves as a reminder that God is ultimately in control, and His plans will come to pass despite the actions or intentions of earthly rulers. The narrative in 2 Kings 6:30-33 showcases the themes of human desperation, divine sovereignty, faithfulness in the face of adversity, and the consequences of disobedience, all of which are recurring motifs throughout the Bible.
After 2 Kings 6
The prophet Elisha’s power and influence continued to grow. He had warned the king of Israel of the Aramean king’s plans, saving the Israelites from ambush. The Aramean king, enraged, sent a great army to surround the city where Elisha was staying.
When Elisha’s servant saw the vast Aramean army, he was filled with fear. But Elisha reassured him, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Elisha prayed, and the servant’s eyes were opened to see the hills full of horses and chariots of fire surrounding Elisha.
The Aramean army was then struck with blindness, and Elisha led them to the city of Samaria, where the king of Israel spared their lives. This miraculous deliverance showed the power of God working through Elisha. The people of Israel were reminded that the Lord protects and provides for His faithful servants, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.