Old Testament
2 Kings 7:1
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this moment, Elisha, a prophet, delivers a powerful message from God.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Elisha said, "Listen to the word of the LORD! The LORD says, 'By this time tomorrow, a seah of fine flour will sell for just a shekel, and two seahs of barley for a shekel, right at the gate of Samaria.'"
Then Elisha said, Hear ye the word of the LORD; Thus saith the LORD, To morrow about this time shall a measure of fine flour be sold for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, in the gate of Samaria.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Elisha, a prophet, delivers a powerful message from God. He announces that within just one day, the prices of essential food items will drop dramatically in Samaria, a city facing severe famine. This promise of abundance seems impossible given the current dire situation. Yet, Elisha speaks with confidence, urging the people to listen closely. The mention of a seah of fine flour and two seahs of barley for a shekel highlights the miraculous turnaround that is about to happen. It’s a message of hope, showing that even in the bleakest times, change is possible. This prophecy challenges the people to trust in God’s provision, reminding them that circumstances can shift unexpectedly. Elisha’s words encourage us to hold onto hope, even when things seem hopeless, and to believe in the possibility of a brighter future. The promise of food at the city gate symbolizes not just physical sustenance but also spiritual nourishment and renewal for the people of Samaria.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 7:1 to your life
When facing difficult times, remember that change can happen quickly. Trust in the possibility of better days ahead, just as the people of Samaria were encouraged to do. Keep your heart open to hope and be ready for unexpected blessings. God’s promises can transform our situations in ways we cannot foresee. Stay faithful and watch for the good to come your way.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Elisha's prophecy in 2 Kings 7:1 mean?
Elisha's prophecy in 2 Kings 7:1 signifies a dramatic turnaround in the dire situation of Samaria, which was suffering from a severe famine. He declares that within 24 hours, food prices will drop significantly, indicating God's miraculous provision. This message serves as a reminder that even in desperate times, hope and abundance can emerge unexpectedly through faith in God's promises.
How can I apply the message of 2 Kings 7:1 to my life?
The message of 2 Kings 7:1 encourages us to maintain hope during challenging times. Just as the people of Samaria were promised a sudden change in their circumstances, we too can trust that our situations can improve. This verse reminds us to stay faithful and open to the possibility of blessings, even when things seem bleak. It teaches us to believe in God's provision and to remain optimistic about the future.
What does a 'seah' and 'shekel' refer to in 2 Kings 7:1?
In 2 Kings 7:1, a 'seah' is an ancient measure of volume, typically used for dry goods like flour and barley, while a 'shekel' is a unit of currency. The prophecy indicates that a seah of fine flour and two seahs of barley will be sold for just one shekel, highlighting the miraculous drop in prices and God's provision for the people during a time of famine.
Why is the promise of food at the city gate significant?
The promise of food at the city gate in 2 Kings 7:1 is significant because it symbolizes not only physical sustenance but also hope and renewal for the people of Samaria. The city gate was a central point for trade and community life, and the availability of food there represents a restoration of normalcy and abundance after a period of suffering. It emphasizes God's ability to transform dire circumstances into blessings.
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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