Old Testament
2 Kings 4:35
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, Elisha demonstrates his deep commitment to the boy's life.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Elisha got up and paced back and forth in the house. Then he went back and stretched himself over the boy again. The child sneezed seven times and opened his eyes.
Then he returned, and walked in the house to and fro; and went up, and stretched himself upon him: and the child sneezed seven times, and the child opened his eyes.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Elisha demonstrates his deep commitment to the boy's life. He moves around the house, perhaps in prayer or contemplation, showing his determination. When he stretches himself over the child again, it symbolizes a powerful act of faith and connection. The boy sneezes seven times, a sign of life returning to him, and then he opens his eyes. This miraculous event highlights the importance of persistence and belief in the face of despair. Elisha's actions remind us that sometimes, we need to go the extra mile for those we care about. The number seven often represents completeness, suggesting that the boy's revival is total and perfect. This story encourages us to hold onto hope, even when situations seem hopeless, and to trust in the possibility of restoration and new beginnings. It’s a vivid reminder that life can return in unexpected ways, and that faith can lead to miraculous outcomes, even in dire circumstances. Elisha’s dedication and the boy’s revival inspire us to believe in the power of life and hope. Explore related miracles.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 4:35 to your life
When faced with challenges, remember the importance of persistence and faith. Just as Elisha did not give up, we too can support those in need with unwavering belief. Look for ways to bring hope and life into difficult situations, trusting that change is possible. Your actions can make a difference in someone’s life today. Stay hopeful and engaged in the process of healing and restoration for yourself and others.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 4:35 mean?
2 Kings 4:35 describes Elisha's actions as he seeks to revive a boy who has died. His pacing and stretching over the child symbolize his deep commitment and faith in the possibility of restoration. The boy sneezing seven times and opening his eyes signifies the miraculous return of life.
What is the significance of the number seven in 2 Kings 4:35?
In 2 Kings 4:35, the number seven often represents completeness and perfection. The boy sneezing seven times suggests that his revival is total and signifies a complete restoration of life.
How does Elisha demonstrate faith in 2 Kings 4:35?
Elisha demonstrates faith by not giving up on the boy's life, pacing in prayer, and stretching himself over the child again. His actions reflect a strong belief in the possibility of miracles and restoration.
What can we learn from 2 Kings 4:35?
From 2 Kings 4:35, we learn the importance of persistence and faith in difficult times. It encourages us to support others with unwavering belief and to remain hopeful for positive change, even in dire circumstances.
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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