Old Testament
2 Kings 6:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Please let us go to the Jordan, where each of us can cut a beam and build a new place to live." Elisha replied, "Go ahead."
Compare translations
Let us go, we pray thee, unto Jordan, and take thence every man a beam, and let us make us a place there, where we may dwell. And he answered, Go ye.
What 2 Kings 6:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, a group of people approaches the prophet Elisha with a request. They want to go to the Jordan River to gather materials to build a new place to live. This shows their desire for change and improvement in their living situation. Elisha, understanding their need, gives them his blessing to proceed. The act of going to the Jordan symbolizes taking initiative and working together towards a common goal. It reflects a spirit of community and collaboration, as they all contribute to the project. Elisha's response encourages them, indicating that their plans are good and supported. This moment highlights the importance of seeking guidance and support when embarking on new ventures. It also emphasizes the value of teamwork in achieving shared dreams and aspirations. Overall, this passage illustrates the significance of taking action and the role of leadership in facilitating progress and growth in our lives and communities. It reminds us that with determination and support, we can create better living conditions for ourselves.
How to apply 2 Kings 6:2 to your life
When faced with the need for change, gather your friends or family and discuss your goals. Seek guidance from those you trust, just as the group did with Elisha. Remember, working together can lead to better outcomes and stronger relationships. Take the first step towards your dreams today, and support each other along the way. Every small effort counts towards building a better future together.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Kings 6:2
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Kings 6:2
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Kings
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 6:2 mean?
2 Kings 6:2 describes a group asking the prophet Elisha for permission to go to the Jordan River to gather materials for building a new place to live. This reflects their desire for improvement and community effort.
What is the significance of the Jordan River in 2 Kings 6:2?
The Jordan River in 2 Kings 6:2 symbolizes a place of resources and new beginnings. It represents the initiative taken by the group to improve their living situation.
What does Elisha's response in 2 Kings 6:2 indicate?
Elisha's response, 'Go ahead,' shows his support for the group's plans. It highlights the importance of leadership in encouraging others to pursue their goals.
What themes are present in 2 Kings 6:2?
Key themes in 2 Kings 6:2 include initiative, community, collaboration, and leadership. The verse emphasizes the value of working together towards a common goal.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.