Old Testament
2 Kings 5:17
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
Naaman, a high-ranking official, had just been healed of leprosy by the prophet Elisha.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Then Naaman said, "If you won't accept a gift, then please let me take home 2 mule-loads of Israelite soil. From now on, your servant will never again offer burnt offerings or sacrifices to any other god — only to the LORD.
And Naaman said, Shall there not then, I pray thee, be given to thy servant two mules’ burden of earth? for thy servant will henceforth offer neither burnt offering nor sacrifice unto other gods, but unto the LORD.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
Naaman, a high-ranking official, had just been healed of leprosy by the prophet Elisha. Grateful for this miracle, he wanted to express his appreciation. He offered gifts, but Elisha refused to accept them. Instead, Naaman requested to take home two mule-loads of soil from Israel. This was significant because he wanted to create a place to worship the God of Israel. He vowed to no longer offer sacrifices to any other gods, showing his commitment to the LORD alone. This act symbolized his transformation and dedication to a new faith. Naaman understood that true worship required a change of heart and lifestyle, not just rituals. His request for soil represented a desire to honor the God who had changed his life forever. It was a powerful declaration of faith and a commitment to a new way of living, leaving behind his old beliefs and practices. Naaman's story reminds us that genuine gratitude often leads to a profound change in how we live our lives and whom we choose to serve.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 5:17 to your life
Like Naaman, we can show our gratitude for the blessings in our lives by making meaningful changes. Consider what old habits or beliefs you need to leave behind. Embrace a new commitment to living in a way that honors your values and beliefs. Your actions can reflect your gratitude and dedication to a higher purpose. Choose to serve what truly matters to you now and in the future.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Naaman's request for soil symbolize?
Naaman's request for two mule-loads of soil symbolizes his commitment to worship the God of Israel. By taking the soil back to his homeland, he intended to create a sacred space for offering sacrifices to the LORD, indicating a significant transformation in his faith and priorities. This act reflects his desire to leave behind his old beliefs and fully embrace a new way of living dedicated to the God who healed him.
Why did Elisha refuse Naaman's gifts?
Elisha refused Naaman's gifts to emphasize that God's grace and healing cannot be bought or earned through material offerings. This refusal highlights the principle that true worship and gratitude come from the heart, not from transactional exchanges. Elisha wanted to ensure that Naaman understood the nature of God's mercy and the importance of sincere devotion over ritualistic practices.
How can Naaman's story inspire personal transformation?
Naaman's story serves as a powerful reminder that genuine gratitude can lead to profound personal transformation. His decision to abandon his old practices and commit to the worship of the LORD illustrates the importance of aligning our actions with our beliefs. It encourages us to reflect on our own lives, identify habits or beliefs that no longer serve us, and make meaningful changes that honor our values and commitments.
What does this verse teach about worship?
This verse teaches that true worship involves a heartfelt commitment to God rather than mere rituals or offerings. Naaman's vow to offer sacrifices only to the LORD signifies a shift in his priorities and a deeper understanding of what it means to worship. It emphasizes that worship is not just about external acts but about a genuine relationship with God that transforms our lives.

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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