Old Testament
2 Kings 4:38
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
Elisha returned to Gilgal during a famine, a time when food was scarce and people were struggling.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Elisha returned to Gilgal during a time of famine in the land. While the sons of the prophets were gathered around him, he told his servant, 'Put the large pot on the fire and make some stew for the sons of the prophets.'
And Elisha came again to Gilgal: and there was a dearth in the land; and the sons of the prophets were sitting before him: and he said unto his servant, Set on the great pot, and seethe pottage for the sons of the prophets.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
Elisha returned to Gilgal during a famine, a time when food was scarce and people were struggling. He gathered the sons of the prophets, who were his students and followers, to teach and encourage them. Understanding their need for nourishment, he instructed his servant to prepare a large pot of stew. This act was not just about feeding them physically but also about providing for their spiritual needs. Elisha's leadership and care for his community highlight the importance of support during difficult times. The stew symbolizes sustenance and the sharing of resources among those in need. In a time of scarcity, Elisha took action to ensure that his followers were fed and cared for, demonstrating compassion and responsibility. This moment reflects the value of community and the need to look after one another, especially in challenging circumstances. Elisha's actions remind us that even in tough times, we can find ways to support and uplift those around us, fostering a sense of unity and hope.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 4:38 to your life
In our own lives, we can take inspiration from Elisha's example. When we see others struggling, we should step up to help, whether through sharing resources or offering emotional support. Building a strong community means being there for one another, especially in tough times. Every small act of kindness can make a significant difference in someone's life. Let's be proactive in caring for those around us, just as Elisha did for his followers.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 4:38 mean?
2 Kings 4:38 describes Elisha returning to Gilgal during a famine and instructing his servant to prepare stew for the sons of the prophets. This reflects Elisha's role as a leader who cares for his followers' physical and spiritual needs during difficult times.
What is the significance of the stew in 2 Kings 4:38?
The stew in 2 Kings 4:38 symbolizes nourishment and community support. Elisha's act of preparing food for the sons of the prophets highlights the importance of sharing resources and caring for one another, especially during times of scarcity.
What does Elisha's leadership teach us in 2 Kings 4:38?
Elisha's leadership in 2 Kings 4:38 teaches us the value of compassion and responsibility. By ensuring that his followers were fed during a famine, he demonstrates the importance of supporting those in need and fostering a sense of community.
How does 2 Kings 4:38 relate to community support?
2 Kings 4:38 illustrates the concept of community support through Elisha's actions. He gathers the sons of the prophets and provides for them, showing that during tough times, it is essential to look after one another and share resources.
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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