2 Kings 4:23

"Why would you go to him today?" he replied. "It is not a New Moon or a Sabbath." "Everything is all right," she said.

Study Bible

Why go to him today?
This phrase reflects the husband's initial confusion and lack of understanding regarding the urgency of the situation. In the Hebrew context, it was customary to seek a prophet on special occasions or during times of crisis. The husband’s question suggests a routine mindset, possibly indicating a lack of spiritual insight or awareness of the deeper needs of his family. This highlights the importance of spiritual discernment and being attuned to God's workings beyond the ordinary.

It is not the New Moon or the Sabbath
The New Moon and the Sabbath were significant times for worship and seeking prophetic guidance in ancient Israel. These were appointed times for rest and spiritual renewal, as outlined in the Mosaic Law. The husband's reference to these specific days underscores the cultural and religious norms of the time, where seeking a prophet outside these occasions was unusual. This context emphasizes the woman's faith and determination to seek divine intervention regardless of societal expectations or religious routines.

It is well
The woman's response, "It is well," is a profound expression of faith and trust in God. In Hebrew, the word used here is "shalom," which encompasses peace, completeness, and well-being. Despite her distressing circumstances, she chooses to speak words of faith, reflecting her inner conviction that God is in control. This phrase serves as an inspirational reminder of the power of faith-filled declarations, even in the face of adversity, and the peace that comes from trusting in God's sovereignty.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Shunammite Woman
A notable woman from Shunem who showed great faith and hospitality. She is central to the account, demonstrating trust in God's power through the prophet Elisha.

2. Her Husband
The Shunammite woman's husband, who questions her decision to visit the prophet Elisha, highlighting cultural and religious norms of the time.

3. Elisha
A prophet of God who performed many miracles. He is the one the Shunammite woman seeks out in her time of need.

4. Shunem
A town in the territory of Issachar, where the Shunammite woman and her family lived.

5. New Moon and Sabbath
These were significant religious observances in Israel, times for rest and worship, which the husband references to question the timing of her visit to Elisha.

Teaching Points

Faith Beyond Tradition
The Shunammite woman's faith transcends traditional religious observances, showing that seeking God is not confined to specific days or rituals.

Trust in God's Timing
Her response, "It is well," reflects a deep trust in God's timing and provision, even when circumstances seem dire.

The Role of Spiritual Leaders
Elisha's role as a prophet underscores the importance of seeking godly counsel and intervention in times of need.

Cultural and Religious Context
Understanding the cultural and religious context of the New Moon and Sabbath helps us appreciate the depth of the Shunammite woman's faith.

Persistent Faith in Action
Her determination to reach Elisha despite her husband's questioning highlights the importance of persistent faith and action in our spiritual journey.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Shunammite woman's response to her husband demonstrate her faith in God, and how can we apply this in our own lives when faced with challenges?

2. In what ways does the account of the Shunammite woman parallel other biblical accounts of faith and divine intervention, such as Hannah's account in 1 Samuel?

3. What can we learn from the Shunammite woman's approach to seeking help from Elisha about the importance of spiritual leadership and guidance?

4. How does understanding the cultural significance of the New Moon and Sabbath enhance our interpretation of this passage?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to trust in God's timing and provision. How did that experience strengthen your faith, and how can you encourage others with your testimony?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 1:3-20
The account of Hannah, who also sought divine intervention for a child, parallels the Shunammite woman's faith and persistence.

Hebrews 11:35
This verse speaks of women receiving their dead back to life, connecting to the Shunammite woman's later experience with Elisha.

Isaiah 66:23
References the New Moon and Sabbath as times of worship, providing context for the husband's question.