Old Testament
2 Kings 5:14
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
Naaman, a powerful military leader, was suffering from leprosy, a serious skin disease.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
So Naaman went down to the Jordan and dipped himself in the water 7 times, just as the man of God had told him. His skin was completely restored — as smooth and healthy as a little child's — and he was clean.
Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God: and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
Naaman, a powerful military leader, was suffering from leprosy, a serious skin disease. He sought healing from the prophet Elisha, who instructed him to wash in the Jordan River seven times. Initially hesitant, Naaman eventually obeyed and immersed himself in the water. After following the prophet's guidance, his skin transformed, becoming as smooth and healthy as a child's. This miraculous healing not only restored his physical health but also taught him a valuable lesson about humility and faith. Naaman learned that true healing often requires us to let go of our pride and follow simple instructions, even when they seem foolish. His experience reminds us that sometimes, the path to healing and restoration involves steps we might not understand at first, but they lead to profound change. Naaman's story encourages us to trust in guidance, even when it challenges our expectations or comfort zones, leading to unexpected blessings and renewal in our lives. His transformation was not just physical; it was a journey of faith and obedience.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 5:14 to your life
When faced with challenges, consider the steps you might need to take, even if they seem simple or unimportant. Trusting guidance, whether from a friend or a mentor, can lead to significant changes in your life. Embrace humility and be open to new experiences that can lead to personal growth and healing. Remember, sometimes the simplest actions can yield the greatest results in our lives. “Trust the process.” “Be open to change.”
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 5:14 mean?
2 Kings 5:14 describes how Naaman, a military leader with leprosy, followed the prophet Elisha's instructions to wash in the Jordan River seven times. This act of obedience led to his miraculous healing, symbolizing the importance of faith and humility in seeking restoration.
What can we learn from Naaman's healing in 2 Kings 5:14?
Naaman's healing teaches us about the importance of humility and faith. It shows that sometimes, we must follow simple instructions and let go of our pride to experience significant change and healing in our lives.
How does 2 Kings 5:14 relate to personal growth?
This verse illustrates that personal growth often requires us to take simple, sometimes uncomfortable steps. Naaman's journey emphasizes that embracing humility and following guidance can lead to profound transformation and healing.

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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