Old Testament
2 Kings 4:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, a woman recognizes the value of a visiting prophet and decides to create a welcoming space for him.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
"Let's build a small room for him on the roof and put a bed, a table, a chair, and a lamp in it. That way, whenever he visits, he'll have a place to stay."
Let us make a little chamber, I pray thee, on the wall; and let us set for him there a bed, and a table, and a stool, and a candlestick: and it shall be, when he cometh to us, that he shall turn in thither.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, a woman recognizes the value of a visiting prophet and decides to create a welcoming space for him. She suggests building a small room on the roof, equipped with essential furniture like a bed, table, chair, and lamp. This act of hospitality shows her respect and appreciation for the prophet's work. By providing a comfortable place for him to stay, she ensures that he has a refuge during his travels. This small gesture reflects her kindness and generosity, highlighting the importance of caring for others. It also illustrates how simple acts can create lasting connections and support those who serve the community. The room symbolizes a safe haven, a place where the prophet can rest and recharge, allowing him to continue his mission with renewed strength. Her actions remind us that hospitality can have a profound impact on those around us, fostering relationships and encouraging others in their journeys. This story encourages us to think about how we can create spaces of comfort for those who serve and support us.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 4:10 to your life
Consider how you can create a welcoming environment for others in your life. Small gestures, like offering a meal or a listening ear, can make a big difference. Think about ways to support those who serve your community, showing appreciation for their efforts. Your kindness can inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of generosity and care. Every act counts in building a stronger community together.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 4:10 mean?
2 Kings 4:10 describes a woman who decides to build a small room for the prophet Elisha, showing her hospitality and respect for his work. By providing a space with essential furniture, she ensures he has a comfortable place to stay during his visits.
What is the significance of hospitality in 2 Kings 4:10?
The hospitality shown in 2 Kings 4:10 highlights the importance of caring for others, especially those who serve the community. The woman's actions reflect kindness and generosity, illustrating how small gestures can create meaningful connections.
What can we learn from the woman in 2 Kings 4:10?
The woman in 2 Kings 4:10 teaches us the value of hospitality and generosity. Her decision to build a room for Elisha encourages us to think about how we can support and care for those who contribute to our communities.
How does 2 Kings 4:10 relate to community support?
2 Kings 4:10 illustrates how acts of kindness, like providing a place for someone to stay, strengthen community bonds. It encourages us to show appreciation for those who serve, fostering a spirit of generosity and support.
The Book of 2 Kings
2 Kings 1: Elijah’s Final Prophecy
The book of 2 Kings opens with the reign of Ahaziah, Ahab’s son and successor, who continues his father’s wicked ways. After falling through a lattice in his upper chamber, Ahaziah is seriously injured. Instead of inquiring of the Lord of Israel, he sends messengers to inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron, whether he will recover. The prophet Elijah is sent by an angel to intercept the messengers. He confronts them with the question, “Is it not because there is not a God in Israel, that ye go to enquire of Baal-zebub the god of Ekron?” and delivers a message of judgment: Ahaziah will not recover but will surely die.
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