What does 2 Kings 4:8 mean?
"¶ And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread." - 2 Kings 4:8
The verse 2 Kings 4:8 from the King James Version of the Bible reads, "And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread." This verse is found in the Old Testament and is part of the story of the prophet Elisha and a generous woman from Shunem.
The Biblical story of Elisha and the Shunammite woman is a beautiful and meaningful account that reveals several important themes and truths about faith, hospitality, and the providence of God.
The context of 2 Kings 4:8 takes place during the time when Elisha, the successor of the prophet Elijah, was carrying out his ministry. Elisha was known for performing many miracles and acts of compassion, as he sought to bring God's love and healing to the people of Israel. In this particular verse, Elisha is passing through the village of Shunem, where he encounters a "great" or wealthy woman. This woman immediately recognizes Elisha as a holy man and invites him to share a meal with her. This act of hospitality and kindness sets the stage for the remarkable relationship that develops between Elisha and the Shunammite woman.
One of the central themes of 2 Kings 4:8 is hospitality. The Shunammite woman's actions demonstrate a spirit of generosity and kindness as she offers food and shelter to the prophet Elisha. In ancient Near Eastern culture, hospitality was highly valued and considered a sacred duty. This act of welcoming a stranger into her home reflects the Shunammite woman's virtuous character and her recognition of Elisha's role as a servant of God. Her hospitality ultimately leads to a deep and meaningful relationship with Elisha, as he becomes a regular guest in her home.
Another important theme in 2 Kings 4:8 is the providence of God. The Shunammite woman's hospitality towards Elisha is rewarded when Elisha promises her a son, despite her barrenness. This miraculous birth serves as a reminder that God's providence is at work in the lives of His people, and that He often blesses those who are faithful and show kindness to others. The relationship between Elisha and the Shunammite woman exemplifies the way in which God uses ordinary and compassionate people to accomplish His divine purposes.
The symbolism in 2 Kings 4:8 is rich and meaningful. Elisha's presence in the Shunammite woman's home represents the presence of God and His blessings. The act of sharing a meal with Elisha symbolizes communion and fellowship, as the woman and her family are able to enjoy the company of a holy man and receive spiritual nourishment from his teachings. Additionally, the promise of a son to the Shunammite woman symbolizes hope, new life, and the fulfillment of God's promises.
In conclusion, 2 Kings 4:8 presents a powerful and inspiring account of faith, hospitality, and the providence of God. The story of the Shunammite woman and Elisha serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of showing kindness to others, trusting in God's providence, and the blessings that come from extending hospitality to those in need. The themes and symbolism found in this verse continue to resonate with readers today, offering valuable insights into the nature of God and His unfailing love for His people.
Have questions about 2 Kings 4:8?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
2 Kings 4:8 Artwork
2 Kings 4:8 - "¶ And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread."
"¶ And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread." - 2 Kings 4:8
2 Kings 8:4 - "And the king talked with Gehazi the servant of the man of God, saying, Tell me, I pray thee, all the great things that Elisha hath done."
1 Kings 4:8 - "And these are their names: The son of Hur, in mount Ephraim:"
2 Kings 4:4-5
"And these are their names: The son of Hur, in mount Ephraim:" - 1 Kings 4:8
2 KINGS 8:29
2 Kings 8:23 - "And the rest of the acts of Joram, and all that he did, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?"
2 Kings 13:8 - "¶ Now the rest of the acts of Jehoahaz, and all that he did, and his might, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?"
2 Kings 17:8 - "And walked in the statutes of the heathen, whom the LORD cast out from before the children of Israel, and of the kings of Israel, which they had made."
2 Kings 8:18 - "And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, as did the house of Ahab: for the daughter of Ahab was his wife: and he did evil in the sight of the LORD."
2 Kings 10:4 - "But they were exceedingly afraid, and said, Behold, two kings stood not before him: how then shall we stand?"
2 Kings 8:8 - "And the king said unto Hazael, Take a present in thine hand, and go, meet the man of God, and enquire of the LORD by him, saying, Shall I recover of this disease?"
2 Kings 12:8 - "And the priests consented to receive no more money of the people, neither to repair the breaches of the house."
2 Kings 8:20 - "¶ In his days Edom revolted from under the hand of Judah, and made a king over themselves."
2 Kings 16:8 - "And Ahaz took the silver and gold that was found in the house of the LORD, and in the treasures of the king's house, and sent it for a present to the king of Assyria."
2 Kings 8:2 - "And the woman arose, and did after the saying of the man of God: and she went with her household, and sojourned in the land of the Philistines seven years."
2 Kings 8:11 - "And he settled his countenance stedfastly, until he was ashamed: and the man of God wept."
2 Kings 4:11 - "And it fell on a day, that he came thither, and he turned into the chamber, and lay there."
1 Kings 4:2 - "And these were the princes which he had; Azariah the son of Zadok the priest,"
1 Kings 8:4 - "And they brought up the ark of the LORD, and the tabernacle of the congregation, and all the holy vessels that were in the tabernacle, even those did the priests and the Levites bring up."
Hosea 8:4 - "They have set up kings, but not by me: they have made princes, and I knew it not: of their silver and their gold have they made them idols, that they may be cut off."
2 Kings 6:8 - "¶ Then the king of Syria warred against Israel, and took counsel with his servants, saying, In such and such a place shall be my camp."
1 Kings 8:2 - "And all the men of Israel assembled themselves unto king Solomon at the feast in the month Ethanim, which is the seventh month."
2 Kings 6:4 - "So he went with them. And when they came to Jordan, they cut down wood."
2 Kings 9:4 - "¶ So the young man, even the young man the prophet, went to Ramoth-gilead."
2 Kings 2:8 - "And Elijah took his mantle, and wrapped it together, and smote the waters, and they were divided hither and thither, so that they two went over on dry ground."
"And the king talked with Gehazi the servant of the man of God, saying, Tell me, I pray thee, all the great things that Elisha hath done." - 2 Kings 8:4
2 Kings 8:25 - "¶ In the twelfth year of Joram the son of Ahab king of Israel did Ahaziah the son of Jehoram king of Judah begin to reign."
2 Kings 4:15 - "And he said, Call her. And when he had called her, she stood in the door."