2 Kings 7:1

Then Elisha said, "Hear the word of the LORD! This is what the LORD says: 'About this time tomorrow at the gate of Samaria, a seah of fine flour will sell for a shekel, and two seahs of barley will sell for a shekel.'"

Study Bible

Elisha replied
Elisha, the prophet, stands as a pivotal figure in the narrative of Israel's history. His name in Hebrew, אֱלִישָׁע (Elisha), means "God is salvation," which is fitting given his role as a messenger of divine intervention. Elisha's reply is not merely a human response but a conduit for God's voice, emphasizing the importance of prophetic authority in Israel. His presence reassures the people that God has not abandoned them, even in dire circumstances.

Hear the word of the LORD
This phrase underscores the authority and power of divine revelation. The Hebrew word for "hear," שָׁמַע (shama), implies not just listening but obeying and understanding. The "word of the LORD" is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, signifying God's direct communication with His people. It is a call to faith, urging the audience to trust in God's promises despite their current suffering.

This is what the LORD says
The phrase serves as a divine seal of authenticity. It is a reminder that the message comes from Yahweh, the covenant-keeping God of Israel. This declaration is a common prophetic formula, emphasizing that the ensuing promise is not of human origin but divinely ordained. It invites the hearers to shift their focus from their immediate troubles to the sovereignty of God.

About this time tomorrow
This specific timeframe highlights the immediacy and certainty of God's intervention. It challenges the people to trust in God's timing, which often defies human logic. The phrase serves as a test of faith, as the promise seems impossible given the current siege and famine in Samaria. It is a reminder that God's ways are higher than human ways.

at the gate of Samaria
The gate of Samaria was not just a physical location but a hub of social and economic activity. It was where legal matters were settled, and trade was conducted. Mentioning the gate signifies a public and undeniable fulfillment of God's promise. It assures the people that the change will be visible and accessible to all, transforming the heart of the city.

a seah of fine flour will sell for a shekel
A "seah" is a measure of volume, approximately 7.3 liters or 1.9 gallons. The promise of fine flour, a staple of sustenance, at such a low price signifies a miraculous reversal of the famine. The "shekel," a standard unit of currency, indicates economic stability and abundance. This prophecy speaks to God's ability to provide not just survival but prosperity.

and two seahs of barley for a shekel
Barley, often considered a less desirable grain than wheat, being sold at such a low price further emphasizes the extent of the coming abundance. The doubling of the measure for the same price as the fine flour suggests an overflow of provision. It is a testament to God's generosity and the completeness of His deliverance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elisha
A prophet of God, successor to Elijah, known for performing miracles and delivering God's messages to the people of Israel.

2. Samaria
The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, which was under siege by the Arameans at this time, leading to a severe famine.

3. The Siege of Samaria
A critical event where the city was surrounded by the Aramean army, causing extreme scarcity and desperation among the inhabitants.

4. The Word of the LORD
The divine message delivered by Elisha, promising a miraculous end to the famine and a return to normalcy in the economy.

5. The Gate of Samaria
A significant location in the city where trade and legal matters were conducted, symbolizing the center of public life.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Promises
Elisha's prophecy reminds us that God's promises are sure, even when circumstances seem impossible. We are called to trust in His word and timing.

God's Provision in Desperation
Just as God provided for Samaria, He is able to meet our needs in times of crisis. We should look to Him as our ultimate provider.

The Power of God's Word
The fulfillment of Elisha's prophecy demonstrates the power and reliability of God's word. We should hold fast to Scripture as our guide and source of truth.

Faith in the Face of Doubt
The people of Samaria were in a dire situation, yet Elisha's message required faith. We are encouraged to maintain faith even when others doubt.

God's Timing and Methods
God's ways are not our ways, and His timing is perfect. We should be patient and open to the unexpected ways He may choose to work in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elisha's prophecy challenge us to trust in God's promises, even when our circumstances seem dire?

2. In what ways can we see God's provision in our own lives, similar to how He provided for Samaria?

3. How does the power of God's word, as demonstrated in this passage, encourage us to rely on Scripture in our daily lives?

4. What are some areas in our lives where we need to exercise faith in the face of doubt or skepticism from others?

5. How can we learn to be patient and trust in God's timing and methods, especially when they differ from our expectations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 6:24-33
Provides context for the dire situation in Samaria, describing the severe famine and the desperation of the people.

Genesis 18:14
Relates to the theme of God's ability to do the impossible, as seen in the promise to Abraham and Sarah about the birth of Isaac.

Matthew 19:26
Jesus speaks about the possibility of all things with God, echoing the miraculous provision promised through Elisha.

Isaiah 55:11
Highlights the power and certainty of God's word, which accomplishes what He desires, as seen in the fulfillment of Elisha's prophecy.

John 6:35
Jesus as the Bread of Life, connecting the physical provision of food in Samaria to the spiritual provision found in Christ.