2 Kings 6:28

Then the king asked her, "What is the matter?" And she answered, "This woman said to me, 'Give up your son, that we may eat him, and tomorrow we will eat my son.'

Study Bible

Then the king asked her
This phrase introduces us to the dire situation in Samaria during a severe famine. The king, likely King Jehoram of Israel, is portrayed as a leader deeply troubled by the plight of his people. The Hebrew root for "asked" (שָׁאַל, sha'al) implies a seeking or inquiring, indicating the king's active engagement in understanding the suffering of his subjects. This reflects a biblical principle of leadership that involves empathy and a desire to address the needs of the people.

What is the matter?
The king's question is direct and compassionate, showing his concern for the woman's distress. The phrase "What is the matter?" in Hebrew (מַה־לָּךְ, mah-lakh) can be seen as an expression of genuine care and a willingness to listen. This moment highlights the importance of leaders being approachable and responsive to the cries of those they serve, a theme consistent throughout Scripture.

And she answered
The woman's response is pivotal, as it reveals the depth of the crisis. The Hebrew verb for "answered" (וַתֹּאמֶר, vato'mer) suggests a narrative or declaration, indicating that her words carry significant weight. Her willingness to speak up in such a desperate situation underscores the severity of the famine and the breakdown of societal norms.

This woman said to me
This phrase sets the stage for the shocking revelation that follows. The reference to "this woman" indicates a specific individual, highlighting the personal nature of the tragedy. It also reflects the communal aspect of suffering, where the actions of one person can deeply affect another. The narrative invites readers to consider the broader implications of sin and desperation in a community.

Give up your son
The request to "give up your son" is a heart-wrenching demand that underscores the extremity of the famine. The Hebrew word for "give up" (תְּנִי, teni) implies a surrender or relinquishing, which in this context is both literal and symbolic. It represents the ultimate sacrifice and the collapse of moral and familial bonds in the face of survival. This moment serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God, as seen throughout Israel's history.

and we will eat him today
This phrase is a chilling depiction of the desperation that has gripped Samaria. The act of cannibalism, though abhorrent, is presented as a last resort in the face of starvation. The historical context of ancient sieges often included such dire circumstances, emphasizing the severity of the situation. This serves as a sobering reminder of the depths to which humanity can fall when disconnected from divine guidance.

and tomorrow we will eat my son
The agreement to eat the other woman's son the following day highlights the tragic cycle of despair and the loss of hope. The phrase "tomorrow we will eat" suggests a grim acceptance of their fate, illustrating the pervasive hopelessness. This part of the narrative calls readers to reflect on the importance of faith and reliance on God, even in the darkest times, as a means of finding hope and deliverance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The King of Israel
Likely King Jehoram, son of Ahab, who was ruling during the time of the Aramean siege of Samaria.

2. The Woman
A desperate mother in Samaria who approaches the king with a grievous complaint during a severe famine.

3. Samaria
The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, under siege by the Arameans, leading to extreme famine and desperation.

4. The Siege
The Aramean army besieged Samaria, causing a severe famine that led to desperate and horrific actions by the inhabitants.

5. The Other Woman
Another mother involved in the tragic agreement to eat their children due to the famine.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
The dire situation in Samaria is a direct result of Israel's disobedience to God. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

The Depths of Human Desperation
The account illustrates the extreme lengths to which people will go when faced with severe hardship. It challenges us to consider how we respond to crises and where we place our trust.

The Role of Leadership in Times of Crisis
The king's inability to provide a solution reflects the failure of leadership when it is not grounded in faith and reliance on God. Leaders are called to seek divine wisdom in guiding their people.

The Importance of Faith and Repentance
In times of distress, turning back to God in faith and repentance is crucial. The account encourages believers to seek God earnestly and trust in His provision and deliverance.

The Hope of Redemption
Despite the grim circumstances, the broader account of Scripture points to God's redemptive plan. Believers are reminded of the hope found in Christ, who delivers us from spiritual famine and death.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the situation in 2 Kings 6:28 reflect the consequences of Israel's disobedience as outlined in Deuteronomy 28?

2. In what ways can we see the importance of godly leadership during times of crisis in this passage?

3. How does this account challenge us to examine our own responses to desperate situations?

4. What lessons can we learn about the importance of faith and repentance from the broader context of this account?

5. How does the hope of redemption through Christ provide comfort and perspective in the face of seemingly hopeless situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28:53-57
This passage warns of the curses that would come upon Israel for disobedience, including the horror of cannibalism during a siege.

Lamentations 4:10
Describes the fulfillment of such curses during the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem, where compassionate women boiled their own children.

2 Kings 6:24-33
Provides the broader context of the siege and the king's reaction to the woman's plea, highlighting the desperation and moral decay during the famine.