Old Testament
2 Kings 5:10
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, Elisha, a prophet, sends a messenger to Naaman, a powerful military leader suffering from leprosy.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Elisha sent a messenger out to him with instructions: "Go wash yourself in the Jordan River 7 times. Your skin will be restored, and you'll be clean."
And Elisha sent a messenger unto him, saying, Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt be clean.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Elisha, a prophet, sends a messenger to Naaman, a powerful military leader suffering from leprosy. Instead of meeting Naaman directly, Elisha gives him a simple yet profound instruction: to wash in the Jordan River seven times. This command seems straightforward, but it challenges Naaman's pride and expectations. He initially reacts with anger and disbelief, feeling that such a simple act is beneath him. However, after some persuasion from his servants, he decides to follow Elisha's instructions. When he finally washes in the river as directed, his skin is miraculously restored to health. This story highlights the importance of obedience and humility, showing that sometimes the path to healing and restoration requires us to let go of our pride and trust in what may seem foolish. It teaches us that true change often comes from simple acts of faith, even when they challenge our understanding or expectations. Naaman's journey from skepticism to faith is a powerful reminder of how we can find healing in unexpected ways.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 5:10 to your life
When faced with challenges, consider the simple steps you might be overlooking. Sometimes, the solution requires humility and a willingness to follow guidance, even if it seems trivial. Trust that taking small actions can lead to significant changes in your life and well-being. Embrace the process of growth and healing, no matter how it appears at first glance.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Elisha's instruction to Naaman signify?
Elisha's instruction to Naaman to wash in the Jordan River seven times signifies the importance of obedience and faith in God's guidance. It illustrates that sometimes, the path to healing and restoration requires us to follow seemingly simple or humble instructions, even when they challenge our pride or expectations.
Why did Naaman initially refuse to wash in the Jordan?
Naaman initially refused to wash in the Jordan because he felt that the act was beneath him and questioned the effectiveness of such a simple solution. His pride and expectations led him to believe that a grander gesture was necessary for his healing, highlighting the struggle between human pride and divine instruction.
What can we learn from Naaman's experience with Elisha?
Naaman's experience teaches us about the importance of humility and obedience. It shows that true healing often requires us to let go of our preconceived notions and trust in a process that may seem trivial. His journey from skepticism to faith reminds us that significant changes can come from simple acts of obedience.
How does this story relate to faith and healing?
This story relates to faith and healing by demonstrating that faith often involves taking action based on trust in God, even when the steps seem insignificant. Naaman's healing was a direct result of his willingness to follow Elisha's instructions, illustrating that faith can lead to miraculous outcomes when we act in obedience.

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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