Old Testament
2 Kings 4:30
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this moment, the boy's mother demonstrates unwavering determination and faith.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
But the boy's mother said, "As surely as the LORD lives and as your soul lives, I won't leave without you." So Elisha got up and went with her.
And the mother of the child said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And he arose, and followed her.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, the boy's mother demonstrates unwavering determination and faith. She approaches the prophet Elisha, pleading for his help to save her son. Her declaration, "As surely as the LORD lives," shows her deep conviction and trust in God. She refuses to leave without him, highlighting her desperation and hope. Elisha, moved by her insistence, rises and follows her. This interaction illustrates the power of a mother's love and the lengths she will go to for her child. It also emphasizes the importance of persistence in seeking help during difficult times. Her faith and determination ultimately lead to a significant response from Elisha, showcasing how our tenacity can influence others and bring about change. This story encourages us to hold onto our faith and seek support when facing challenges, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles and that help is often just a request away. Her actions inspire us to be bold in our requests and to trust in the goodness of others.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 4:30 to your life
When faced with challenges, don't hesitate to seek help from those who can assist you. Like the mother, be persistent in your requests and trust that support is available. Your determination can inspire others to act and bring about positive change in your situation. Remember, you are not alone in your struggles!
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 4:30 mean?
2 Kings 4:30 shows a mother's unwavering faith and determination as she seeks help from the prophet Elisha to save her son. Her insistence on not leaving without him highlights her desperation and hope, illustrating the lengths a parent will go for their child.
What is the significance of the mother's declaration in 2 Kings 4:30?
The mother's declaration, "As surely as the LORD lives," signifies her deep faith and trust in God. It emphasizes her belief that divine intervention is necessary for her son's survival and reflects her strong resolve to seek help.
How does 2 Kings 4:30 illustrate the theme of persistence?
In 2 Kings 4:30, the mother's refusal to leave without Elisha demonstrates her persistence in seeking help. Her determination serves as a reminder that tenacity can lead to positive outcomes, especially in challenging situations.
What can we learn from the mother in 2 Kings 4:30?
The mother in 2 Kings 4:30 teaches us the importance of seeking help when needed and being persistent in our requests. Her actions remind us that faith and determination can inspire others to take action and bring about change.

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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