2 Kings 13:16

Then Elisha said to the king of Israel, "Put your hand on the bow." So the king put his hand on the bow, and Elisha put his hands on the king's hands.

Study Bible

Then Elisha said to the king of Israel
Elisha, the prophet and successor of Elijah, is speaking to Jehoash (Joash), the king of Israel. This interaction occurs during a time when Israel is under threat from the Arameans. Elisha's role as a prophet is to convey God's will and guidance to the king, emphasizing the importance of divine intervention in Israel's military affairs. Prophets often served as God's mouthpiece, providing counsel to kings and leaders.

“Put your hand on the bow.”
The bow symbolizes warfare and military strength. By instructing the king to take the bow, Elisha is preparing him for an act of symbolic warfare. This action signifies readiness and willingness to engage in battle, underlining the importance of obedience to prophetic instruction as a means of securing victory. The bow is also a common weapon in ancient Near Eastern warfare, highlighting the historical context of military conflict during this period.

So the king put his hand on the bow,
The king's compliance with Elisha's command demonstrates his recognition of the prophet's authority and the need for divine guidance in military matters. This act of obedience is crucial, as it sets the stage for the subsequent prophetic action and blessing. It reflects the biblical theme of leaders seeking God's direction through His prophets.

and Elisha put his hands on the king’s hands.
Elisha placing his hands on the king's hands symbolizes the transfer of divine power and blessing. This gesture indicates that the forthcoming victory is not by the king's might alone but through God's intervention. It also represents the unity between divine will and human action, a recurring theme in Scripture where God's power works through human agents. This act can be seen as a type of Christ, where Jesus empowers and guides believers in their spiritual battles.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elisha
A prophet in Israel, successor of Elijah, known for his miracles and guidance to the kings of Israel.

2. King of Israel
At this time, Jehoash (also known as Joash), who sought Elisha's counsel in battle against Aram.

3. Bow and Arrow
Symbolic tools used in this passage to represent God's deliverance and victory over Aram.

4. Aram
A neighboring nation often at war with Israel, representing opposition and challenges faced by God's people.

5. Prophetic Action
Elisha's act of placing his hands on the king's hands symbolizes divine empowerment and guidance.

Teaching Points

Divine Empowerment
Just as Elisha placed his hands on the king's hands, we must seek God's empowerment in our battles, recognizing that true strength comes from Him.

Symbolic Actions
The use of the bow and arrow as symbols teaches us that God often uses tangible means to convey spiritual truths and promises.

Prophetic Guidance
Elisha's role highlights the importance of seeking godly counsel and wisdom in our decisions and challenges.

Faith in Action
The king's obedience to Elisha's instructions demonstrates the necessity of faith and action working together in our spiritual journey.

Victory through God
The passage assures us that victory over our adversaries is possible when we align ourselves with God's will and power.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the symbolic act of Elisha placing his hands on the king's hands relate to the concept of divine empowerment in your life?

2. In what ways can you seek and apply godly counsel in your current challenges, similar to the king seeking Elisha's guidance?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced a "battle" in your life. How did you see God's hand at work, and how can this passage encourage you in future struggles?

4. How can the symbolism of the bow and arrow in this passage inspire you to use tangible reminders of God's promises in your daily walk?

5. Consider the connection between this passage and Ephesians 6:10-18. How can you better equip yourself with the "armor of God" in your spiritual battles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 18:34
This verse speaks of God training hands for battle, similar to how Elisha empowers the king for victory.

Ephesians 6:10-18
The armor of God passage, which emphasizes spiritual preparation and reliance on God's strength, akin to Elisha's symbolic act.

Isaiah 41:10
God's promise of support and strength, reflecting the assurance given through Elisha's actions.

1 Samuel 17:45-47
David's reliance on God in battle, paralleling the king's need for divine intervention through Elisha.

Philippians 4:13
The empowerment through Christ, similar to the empowerment symbolized by Elisha's hands on the king's.