Old Testament
2 Kings 4:12
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, the prophet Elisha instructs his servant Gehazi to summon a woman from Shunem.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
He said to his servant Gehazi, "Go call the Shunammite woman." Gehazi called her, and she came and stood before Elisha.
And he said to Gehazi his servant, Call this Shunammite. And when he had called her, she stood before him.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, the prophet Elisha instructs his servant Gehazi to summon a woman from Shunem. This woman had shown great kindness to Elisha by providing him with food and a place to stay. Her willingness to help others demonstrates the importance of hospitality and generosity. When Gehazi calls her, she responds promptly, showing her respect for Elisha and his authority. This moment highlights the connection between the prophet and the woman, suggesting that her actions have not gone unnoticed. Elisha's request to call her indicates that he has something significant to discuss with her. This interaction sets the stage for a deeper relationship and potential blessings in her life. It reminds us that our kindness can lead to unexpected opportunities and divine encounters. The Shunammite woman's story encourages us to be attentive to the needs of others and to respond with grace and generosity, as we never know how our actions may impact our lives and the lives of those around us.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 4:12 to your life
Consider how you can show kindness to those around you. Small acts of generosity can create meaningful connections and open doors to new opportunities. Be attentive to the needs of others, as your actions may lead to unexpected blessings in your life and theirs. Every act of kindness counts, so make it a habit to help others whenever you can. You never know how it might change someone's day or life for the better.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 4:12 mean?
In 2 Kings 4:12, the prophet Elisha asks his servant Gehazi to call the Shunammite woman, who had previously shown him kindness. This verse highlights the importance of hospitality and the connections formed through acts of generosity.
What is the significance of the Shunammite woman in 2 Kings 4:12?
The Shunammite woman is significant because her kindness to Elisha leads to a deeper relationship and potential blessings in her life. Her actions demonstrate the impact of hospitality and generosity.
How does 2 Kings 4:12 relate to kindness and hospitality?
2 Kings 4:12 illustrates how acts of kindness and hospitality can lead to meaningful connections and opportunities. The Shunammite woman's willingness to help Elisha shows that generosity can have lasting effects.
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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