◄ 2 Kings 8 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary The Shunammite’s Land Restored 2 Kings 8 reminds us of God's omnipotence and His use of both miracles and prophecies to shape the history of nations. It's a testament to God's faithfulness to His word and the unforeseen consequences of personal ambition, deception, and deviation from God's path. Restoration of the Shunammite’s Land (Verses 1-6) Following Elisha's advice, the Shunammite woman and her family left their home due to a predicted seven-year famine. On their return, they appealed to the king for their land to be restored, coincidentally as Gehazi, Elisha’s servant, was telling the king about the miracles performed by Elisha. Moved by the story, the king not only restored the land but also gave back all the produce during the seven years. Elisha Predicts Ben-hadad’s Death and Hazael's Reign (Verses 7-15) Elisha traveled to Damascus as King Ben-Hadad lay ill. He sent Hazael with a gift to inquire of Elisha whether he would recover. Elisha prophesied Ben-Hadad would recover from his illness, but Hazael would assassinate him and take the throne, bringing destruction upon Israel. Disturbed by the prophecy, Hazael returned to his king, lied about Elisha's prediction, and the next day, smothered Ben-Hadad to death with a wet cloth, thus becoming king. Jehoram’s Reign in Judah (Verses 16-24) In Judah, Jehoram, son of Jehoshaphat, began his rule. Despite doing evil in the sight of the Lord, God did not destroy Judah due to His covenant with David. Jehoram faced an Edomite revolt and the founding of the city of Libnah. After Jehoram's death, his son Ahaziah succeeded him. Ahaziah Succeeds Jehoram in Judah (Verses 25-29) Ahaziah, who also followed in the ways of the wicked King Ahab of Israel, since he was related to the house of Ahab through his mother. Ahaziah eventually joined Joram, the son of Ahab, to fight against Hazael, king of Aram, at Ramoth Gilead. 2 Kings Chapter 8 unfolds a dramatic narrative in the grand saga of the Kings of Israel and Judah. In the backdrop of divine prophecies and miracles, we witness a significant interplay of faith, treachery, ambition, and divine providence. Teaching Points The Shunammite Woman's Restoration (2 Kings 8:1-6) Elisha's warning to the Shunammite woman to leave due to a famine demonstrates God's care and foresight for His people. Her return after seven years and the subsequent restoration of her land by the king illustrates God's faithfulness and justice. The king's interest in Elisha's miracles, as recounted by Gehazi, shows how God uses testimonies to influence leaders. Hazael's Ascension (2 Kings 8:7-15) Elisha's prophecy to Hazael about becoming king of Aram reveals God's knowledge of future events and His control over political affairs. Hazael's deceit and subsequent murder of Ben-Hadad highlight the human tendency towards sin and ambition, yet God's purposes prevail. Jehoram and Ahaziah's Reigns (2 Kings 8:16-29) The alliance through marriage between the royal families of Israel and Judah leads to spiritual decline, showing the dangers of compromising with ungodly influences. Despite their wickedness, God's covenant with David ensures the continuation of his lineage, underscoring His faithfulness to His promises. Practical Applications Trust in God's providence, even when circumstances seem unfavorable or confusing. Recognize the importance of heeding godly counsel and warnings. Be aware of the influence of ungodly alliances and relationships in your life. Share testimonies of God's work in your life to encourage others and potentially influence those in authority. People 1. Elisha A prophet of Israel who plays a central role in the events of this chapter. He is known for his miracles and guidance to the kings of Israel. In 2 Kings 8, Elisha warns the Shunammite woman about the coming famine and later interacts with Hazael. 2. The Shunammite Woman A woman from Shunem who had previously shown hospitality to Elisha. She follows Elisha's advice to leave her land during the famine and later appeals to the king for the restoration of her property. 3. The King of Israel Although not named in this chapter, the king is involved in the restoration of the Shunammite woman's property. He is interested in the miracles performed by Elisha. 4. Gehazi Elisha's servant, who recounts the miracles of Elisha to the king of Israel. His presence in this chapter is significant as he provides testimony about Elisha's works. 5. Ben-hadad The king of Aram (Syria) who falls ill and sends Hazael to inquire of Elisha whether he will recover. His name in Hebrew, בֶּן־הֲדַד (Ben-hadad), means "son of Hadad," a reference to the storm god. 6. Hazael A servant of Ben-hadad who is sent to Elisha to inquire about the king's illness. Elisha prophesies that Hazael will become king of Aram and will bring harm to Israel. Hazael's name in Hebrew, חֲזָהאֵל (Hazael), means "God has seen." Places 1. Shunem This is the hometown of the Shunammite woman whose son Elisha had previously raised from the dead. In 2 Kings 8:1, Elisha advises her to leave Shunem due to an impending famine: "Now Elisha had said to the woman whose son he had restored to life, 'Arise, and go with your household and stay wherever you can, for the LORD has decreed a famine in the land that will last seven years.'" 2. Philistines' Land The Shunammite woman and her household go to live in the land of the Philistines during the famine. This is mentioned in 2 Kings 8:2: "So the woman arose and did according to the word of the man of God. She and her household went away and stayed in the land of the Philistines for seven years." 3. Samaria The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, where the king resides. In 2 Kings 8:3, the Shunammite woman returns from the land of the Philistines to Samaria to appeal to the king for her house and land: "At the end of the seven years, she returned from the land of the Philistines and went to appeal to the king for her house and land." 4. Damascus The capital of Aram (Syria), where King Ben-Hadad falls ill. Elisha visits Damascus in 2 Kings 8:7: "Elisha went to Damascus while Ben-hadad king of Aram was ill, and the king was told, 'The man of God has come here.'" 5. Aram The region ruled by King Ben-Hadad, often in conflict with Israel. In 2 Kings 8:28, King Joram of Israel goes to war against Hazael of Aram at Ramoth-gilead: "Then Joram went with Jehoram son of Ahab to fight against Hazael king of Aram at Ramoth-gilead, where the Arameans wounded Joram." 6. Ramoth-gilead A city of strategic importance, often contested between Israel and Aram. It is mentioned in 2 Kings 8:28 as the site of battle: "Then Joram went with Jehoram son of Ahab to fight against Hazael king of Aram at Ramoth-gilead, where the Arameans wounded Joram." Events 1. The Shunammite Woman's Land Restored Elisha advises the Shunammite woman to leave her land due to a forthcoming famine: "Now Elisha had said to the woman whose son he had restored to life, 'Arise and go with your household and stay wherever you can, for the LORD has decreed a famine in the land that will last seven years.'" (2 Kings 8:1). The Hebrew word for "famine" is "רָעָב" (ra'av), indicating a severe scarcity of food. 2. The Shunammite Woman Appeals to the King After the famine, the woman returns and appeals to the king for her land: "At the end of seven years, she returned from the land of the Philistines and went to appeal to the king for her house and land." (2 Kings 8:3). The term "appeal" in Hebrew is "צָעַק" (tsa'aq), meaning to cry out or call for help. 3. Gehazi's Testimony to the King Gehazi, Elisha's servant, recounts Elisha's miracles to the king: "Now the king was talking with Gehazi, the servant of the man of God, saying, 'Please relate to me all the great things Elisha has done.'" (2 Kings 8:4). The Hebrew word for "great" is "גָּדוֹל" (gadol), emphasizing the magnitude of Elisha's deeds. 4. The King Restores the Woman's Property The king restores the woman's property after Gehazi's testimony: "When the king asked the woman, she told him the story. So the king appointed for her a certain officer, saying, 'Restore all that was hers, along with all the produce of the field from the day she left the land until now.'" (2 Kings 8:6). The Hebrew root for "restore" is "שׁוּב" (shuv), meaning to return or bring back. 5. Elisha Predicts Hazael's Rise to Power Elisha travels to Damascus and predicts Hazael's future as king: "Elisha went to Damascus while Ben-hadad king of Aram was sick, and the king was told, 'The man of God has come here.'" (2 Kings 8:7). The Hebrew word for "sick" is "חָלָה" (chalah), indicating a state of illness or weakness. 6. Hazael's Deceptive Message to Ben-hadad Hazael delivers a deceptive message to Ben-hadad: "Hazael went to meet Elisha, taking with him a gift of forty camel loads of all the finest goods of Damascus. He went in and stood before him and said, 'Your son Ben-hadad king of Aram has sent me to ask, "Will I recover from this illness?"'" (2 Kings 8:9). The Hebrew word for "gift" is "מִנְחָה" (minchah), often used for offerings or tributes. 7. Elisha Foresees Hazael's Evil Acts Elisha weeps as he foresees the evil Hazael will commit: "Elisha fixed his gaze steadily on him until Hazael became uncomfortable. Then the man of God began to weep." (2 Kings 8:11). The Hebrew root for "weep" is "בָּכָה" (bakah), indicating deep sorrow or lamentation. 8. Hazael Becomes King of Aram Hazael kills Ben-hadad and becomes king: "But the next day, Hazael took a thick cloth, dipped it in water, and spread it over the king’s face. So he died, and Hazael reigned in his place." (2 Kings 8:15). The Hebrew word for "reigned" is "מָלַךְ" (malak), meaning to rule or have dominion. 9. Jehoram's Reign in Judah Jehoram begins his reign in Judah: "In the fifth year of Joram son of Ahab king of Israel, Jehoram son of Jehoshaphat became king of Judah." (2 Kings 8:16). The Hebrew root for "became king" is "מָלַךְ" (malak), similar to Hazael's ascension. 10. Jehoram's Evil Practices Jehoram follows the ways of the kings of Israel: "And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, just as the house of Ahab had done, for he married a daughter of Ahab and did evil in the sight of the LORD." (2 Kings 8:18). The Hebrew word for "evil" is "רַע" (ra), denoting wickedness or wrongdoing. 11. The LORD's Covenant with David Despite Jehoram's evil, the LORD preserves Judah for David's sake: "Yet the LORD was not willing to destroy Judah for the sake of His servant David, since He had promised to maintain a lamp for David and his descendants forever." (2 Kings 8:19). The Hebrew word for "lamp" is "נֵר" (ner), symbolizing a lasting legacy or presence. 12. Edom and Libnah Revolt Edom and Libnah revolt against Judah's rule: "In his days Edom revolted from the hand of Judah and set up their own king." (2 Kings 8:20). The Hebrew root for "revolt" is "פָּשַׁע" (pasha), meaning to rebel or transgress. 13. Ahaziah's Reign in Judah Ahaziah becomes king of Judah: "In the twelfth year of Joram son of Ahab king of Israel, Ahaziah son of Jehoram became king of Judah." (2 Kings 8:25). The Hebrew root for "became king" is "מָלַךְ" (malak), consistent with previous ascensions. 14. Ahaziah's Alliance with Israel Ahaziah allies with Joram of Israel against Hazael: "Then he went with Joram son of Ahab to fight against Hazael king of Aram at Ramoth-gilead, where the Arameans wounded Joram." (2 Kings 8:28). The Hebrew word for "fight" is "לָחַם" (lacham), indicating battle or warfare. Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord's guidance and providence. Romans 8:28 God's ability to work all things for good for those who love Him. 1 Corinthians 15:33 The impact of bad company on good character. 2 Samuel 7:12-16 God's covenant with David, ensuring the continuation of his lineage. Prayer Points Pray for trust in God's sovereignty and providence in your life. Ask for wisdom to heed godly counsel and warnings. Seek God's guidance in forming relationships and alliances. Pray for opportunities to share your testimony and influence others for God's glory. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Elisha's prophecy and the Shunammite woman's faith intertwine in the beginning of this chapter? How can you apply such faith in your own life? 2. In the narrative, what are the implications of Gehazi speaking to the king about Elisha's miracles at the time the Shunammite woman needed help? 3. Hazael lies to Ben-Hadad about his impending death and then murders him. How does this act reflect on his character and his future rule? How does this relate to contemporary political and personal ambition? 4. How does the passage portray Jehoram's rule in Judah? How might his actions have long-term consequences for Judah? What can we learn about leadership from Jehoram? 5. Reflect on the revolt of Edom and the city of Libnah during Jehoram's reign. What does it indicate about his leadership and relationship with God? 6. Explore the familial ties between Ahaziah and Ahab's house. How did these ties influence Ahaziah's rule? 7. How can the rulers' actions in 2 Kings 8 guide contemporary leaders, both religious and secular? 8. How does God's faithfulness manifest in 2 Kings 8, even amidst the sin and treachery of the kings? 9. Discuss the role of prophetic guidance in the chapter and its relevance in today's Christian journey. 10. Reflect on Elisha's emotional response to Hazael's future atrocities. How does this humanize the prophet? 11. How do you understand God's justice and mercy as displayed in 2 Kings 8? 12. How does the restoration of the Shunammite woman's land demonstrate God's care for the righteous? 13. How should Christians today respond to the kind of deception practiced by Hazael? 14. How do you interpret the phrase, "yet the LORD was not willing to destroy Judah" in terms of God's covenant and promises? 15. How can you apply the lessons learned from the actions and consequences faced by Jehoram and Ahaziah in your life? 16. In what ways can Christians today work to avoid the poor decisions made by the rulers in 2 Kings 8? 17. How does this chapter underscore the importance of faithfulness to God's laws? 18. How can understanding the outcomes in 2 Kings 8 help us discern God's active role in world events today? 19. Hazael's rise to power was predicted, yet it was through violent means. How does this prophecy fit into your understanding of God's plan and free will? 20. What personal characteristics should a leader have, based on the examples in 2 Kings 8, and how can you cultivate these characteristics in your own life? Topics 1. The Shunammite Woman's Land Restored The chapter begins with Elisha advising the Shunammite woman to leave her land due to an impending seven-year famine. After the famine, she returns to appeal to the king for her land. The king, upon hearing her story and the testimony of Gehazi, restores her property. This narrative highlights God's providence and the fulfillment of prophetic words. The Hebrew root for "restore" (שׁוּב, shuv) emphasizes a return to a previous state, underscoring God's restorative justice. 2. Elisha Predicts Hazael's Rise to Power Elisha travels to Damascus, where he encounters Hazael, a servant of the king of Aram. Elisha prophesies that Hazael will become king and cause great harm to Israel. This prophecy demonstrates the sovereignty of God over nations and leaders. The Hebrew term for "anoint" (מָשַׁח, mashach) is significant here, as it often denotes divine appointment, even when the outcome involves judgment. 3. Hazael Murders Ben-Hadad Following Elisha's prophecy, Hazael returns to Ben-Hadad, the king of Aram, and subsequently murders him to seize the throne. This act of treachery fulfills Elisha's words and illustrates the theme of divine foreknowledge and human agency. The narrative reflects the moral complexities and the unfolding of God's plans through human actions. 4. Jehoram's Reign in Judah The chapter shifts focus to Jehoram, king of Judah, detailing his reign and the evil he committed in the sight of the Lord. Despite his wickedness, the Lord refrains from destroying Judah for the sake of His covenant with David. This section underscores the enduring nature of God's promises and the concept of covenant faithfulness (חֶסֶד, chesed). 5. Ahaziah's Reign in Judah Ahaziah, son of Jehoram, becomes king of Judah. His reign is marked by idolatry and alliance with the house of Ahab, leading to his downfall. The narrative highlights the consequences of aligning with ungodly influences and the importance of faithfulness to God. The Hebrew root for "walked" (הָלַךְ, halak) is used to describe Ahaziah's conduct, indicating a lifestyle or pattern of behavior contrary to God's ways. Themes 1. Divine Providence and Restoration In 2 Kings 8:1-6, the theme of divine providence is evident as Elisha instructs the Shunammite woman to leave her land due to an impending famine. Her obedience and subsequent restoration of her property highlight God's sovereign care and provision. The Hebrew root for "restore" (שׁוּב, shuv) emphasizes a return to a former state, underscoring God's ability to restore what was lost. 2. Prophetic Insight and Authority Elisha's role as a prophet is central in this chapter, particularly in 2 Kings 8:7-15, where he foretells the future of Hazael and the fate of the king of Aram. The Hebrew term for "prophet" (נָבִיא, navi) signifies one who speaks forth God's message, demonstrating the authority and insight granted to Elisha by God. 3. Judgment and Sovereignty The theme of divine judgment is present in 2 Kings 8:7-15, where Elisha predicts the death of Ben-Hadad and the rise of Hazael as king. This passage reflects God's sovereignty over nations and leaders, as He orchestrates events according to His will. The Hebrew word for "judgment" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat) conveys the idea of justice and order, reinforcing God's righteous governance. 4. Moral Decline and Consequences In 2 Kings 8:16-29, the narrative shifts to the moral decline of Judah and Israel's kings, Jehoram and Ahaziah. Their actions lead to negative consequences, illustrating the biblical principle that turning away from God results in downfall. The Hebrew root for "evil" (רָע, ra) is used to describe their deeds, highlighting the moral and spiritual decay. 5. Covenant Faithfulness Despite the unfaithfulness of the kings, God's covenant with David remains steadfast, as seen in 2 Kings 8:19. The Lord's promise to maintain David's lineage underscores His faithfulness to His covenant. The Hebrew term for "covenant" (בְּרִית, berit) signifies a binding agreement, emphasizing God's unwavering commitment to His promises. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions