2 Kings 5:11

But Naaman went away angry, saying, "I thought that he would surely come out, stand and call on the name of the LORD his God, and wave his hand over the spot to cure my leprosy.

Study Bible

But Naaman went away angry
Naaman, a commander of the army of the king of Aram, is introduced here with a strong emotional reaction. The Hebrew word for "angry" is "qatsaph," which conveys a sense of burning anger or indignation. This reaction is significant as it reveals Naaman's expectations and pride. Historically, Naaman was a man of high status and power, accustomed to respect and deference. His anger reflects his disappointment and the challenge to his pride when Elisha, the prophet, did not meet him personally but sent a messenger instead.

and said, “I thought
The phrase "I thought" indicates Naaman's preconceived notions and expectations. In Hebrew, the word "amar" is used, which means to say or to think. This highlights the internal dialogue and assumptions Naaman had about how his healing should occur. It underscores a common human tendency to rely on personal understanding rather than divine instruction, a theme prevalent throughout Scripture.

‘He would surely come out to me
Naaman expected Elisha to come out personally, which reflects the cultural norms of honor and respect. The phrase "come out" in Hebrew is "yatsa," meaning to go forth or appear. This expectation reveals Naaman's misunderstanding of how God often works through humility and simplicity rather than grandeur and spectacle. It challenges the reader to consider how God’s ways are higher than human ways (Isaiah 55:8-9).

and stand and call on the name of the LORD his God
Naaman anticipated a dramatic, ceremonial healing. The phrase "call on the name of the LORD" is significant, as it reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice of invoking a deity's power. The Hebrew word for "call" is "qara," which means to proclaim or summon. Naaman's expectation of a public display contrasts with the personal and humble nature of true faith and obedience to God.

wave his hand over the spot
This phrase suggests a magical or ritualistic expectation. The act of waving the hand is reminiscent of other ancient healing practices, where physical gestures were believed to invoke divine power. Naaman's expectation of a physical sign or wonder highlights a common human desire for tangible evidence of divine intervention, which is often contrary to the faith-based approach God requires.

and cure my leprosy.’”
Leprosy, in the biblical context, was a term used for various skin diseases and was often seen as a sign of impurity or divine disfavor. The Hebrew word "tsara'ath" is used here, which encompasses a range of skin conditions. Naaman's desire for healing is not just physical but also social and spiritual, as leprosy affected one's standing in the community. This highlights the comprehensive nature of God's healing, which addresses the whole person.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Naaman
A commander of the army of the king of Aram, Naaman was a valiant soldier but suffered from leprosy. His account is central to this passage as it highlights his expectations and subsequent disappointment.

2. Elisha
The prophet of God in Israel who instructed Naaman to wash in the Jordan River to be healed of his leprosy. Elisha's actions and instructions are pivotal in demonstrating God's power and the importance of obedience.

3. Jordan River
The river in which Naaman was instructed to wash seven times to be cleansed of his leprosy. It symbolizes humility and obedience to God's instructions.

4. Aram (Syria)
The nation where Naaman served as a military commander. It was often in conflict with Israel, adding a layer of complexity to Naaman's journey to seek healing in Israel.

5. Leprosy
A chronic skin disease that rendered individuals ceremonially unclean in Israel. Naaman's healing from leprosy serves as a metaphor for spiritual cleansing and redemption.

Teaching Points

Expectations vs. God's Ways
Naaman's anger stemmed from unmet expectations. We must be open to God's methods, which may differ from our own preconceived notions.

The Role of Humility in Receiving God's Blessings
Naaman's healing required humility. Similarly, we must humble ourselves to receive God's grace and guidance.

Obedience to God's Instructions
Naaman's healing was contingent on his obedience. Our spiritual growth often requires us to follow God's commands, even when they seem simple or insignificant.

God's Grace Extends Beyond Boundaries
Naaman, a foreigner, received God's healing, illustrating that God's grace is available to all who seek Him in faith.

The Danger of Pride
Naaman's initial pride almost cost him his healing. Pride can be a barrier to experiencing God's full blessings in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do Naaman's expectations of how he should be healed reflect our own expectations of how God should work in our lives?

2. In what ways does Naaman's account challenge us to examine areas of pride that may hinder our relationship with God?

3. How can we apply the principle of humility in our daily walk with God, especially when His instructions seem simple or counterintuitive?

4. What does Naaman's healing teach us about God's willingness to extend grace and healing beyond cultural and national boundaries?

5. How can we ensure that we are obedient to God's instructions, even when they do not align with our personal expectations or desires?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Luke 4:27
Jesus references Naaman's healing to illustrate God's grace extending beyond Israel, emphasizing faith and obedience over nationality or status.

James 4:6
This verse speaks to the theme of humility, which is a key lesson in Naaman's account. Naaman's initial pride is contrasted with the humility required to follow Elisha's simple instructions.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trusting in the Lord with all one's heart and not leaning on one's own understanding is a principle that Naaman had to learn through his experience.